Unsealed report on Brian Flores reveals racial stereotypes against coach, his lawyers say
A recently unsealed recruiting firm’s report on Brian Flores has multiple examples of “racial stereotypes” and amounts to unlawful retaliation for the coach’s discrimination lawsuit against the NFL, according to his lawyers.The Korn Ferry report that was made public Tuesday — a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press — contains a list of six strengths and seven weaknesses which Flores’ attorneys say show the league still uses racial stereotypes in hiring and is unlawfully retaliating against the coach for his lawsuit against the league alleging racial discrimination.The report, which was first published by Front Office Sports, was prepared in connection with the Las Vegas Raiders’ coaching vacancy in 2024.Flores is now the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings.“The recently unsealed documents demonstrate two unfortunate, but unsurprising, realities,” attorney Michael J.
Willemin wrote in a statement.“First, that Mr.
Flores’ decision to hold the league and its teams accountable for systemic race discrimination has been met with unlawful retaliation.Second, discrimination continues to play a significant role in the hiring process for NFL Head Coaches, as evidenced by the fact that the candidate profile prepared for the Raiders leans heavily on racial stereotypes.
We and Mr.Flores are committed to eradicating the institutional racism and retaliation that permeates the league, its teams and their partners.”The NFL didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.One of the strengths listed says Flores is a “polished and a good presenter despite growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn (same as Mike Tyson).
He was able to build a strong friendship with a billionaire’s son which gave him opportunities to socialize and learn how to build relationships with white-collar and upper-class individuals.”Brownsville is a predominately black and hispanic neighborhood in Brooklyn.One of the negatives says Flores “can fool y...