Snyder not changing team's name

For over eight decades, the Washington Redskins have been in existence. All of a sudden, a group of Native Americans have come forward and stated that they are offended by the name. The Oneida Nation, who have brought forward this claim, defines the term Redskins as a racial slur. The Oneida had their chance to meet with NFL executives today. Neither Daniel Snyder (Washington Redskins owner), nor Roger Goodell (NFL Commissioner) attended the meeting. Ray Halbritter, the Oneida Nation leader, left disappointed after the meeting. He feels the executives he met with defend the use of the Redskin name.

Daniel Snyder jumped on a Public Relations opportunity and wrote a letter to the fans. He defends the use of the Redskins name and there is no inclination as to changing the name. Snyder had the chance to meet with Goodell in person yesterday. Synder made it clear to Goodell that he is not willing to change the name. 

As a result, Halbritter has called on the Goodell to exercise his authority as the NFL Commissioner. Halbritter wants goodell to sanction Snyder for "conduct detrimental to the rest of the league." The NFL execs that conducted the meeting, promised Halbritter and other Oneida representatives that they will have their chance to meet with Goodell, Snyder, and the rest of the league's owners around Super Bowl week.

So why now? Why are the Native Americans coming forward with their racist claim after so many years?Well, Native American leaders have met before with former NFL Commissioner, Paul Tagliabue, in 1992. The Redskins and the Kansas City Chiefs were the teams in question. Tagliabue simply told them he can't pressure the teams to change their names. This matter died out quickly after that. 

So will the matter die out, as well? Or will there be enough media-driven material to keep it alive until Super Bowl week? Keep in mind, Native Americans were polled and nearly 80% were not offended by the Redskins name. This is going to make it tough for the Oneida Nation to state their case.

Meriweather suspended for 1 game

Brandon Meriweather, Washington Redskins safety, had his suspension reduced from two games to one after an illegal hit against the Chicago Bears in week 7. Meriweather, who's no stranger to illegal helmet-to-helmet hits, was previously fined for a helmet to helmet hit against Eddie Lacy (Green Bay Packers Running Back). The NFL decided to reduce the suspension after taking notice of the fact the referees in the Redskins-Bears game were not sure if the hit warranted a penalty. The league has taken measures in recent years to come down hard on these illegal hits that result in concussions. Some retired players, who have had numerous concussions, admit that their lives after football is affected as a result of these concussions.

Redskins don't have much depth as far as defensive backs go. Their other safety, Reed Doughty, is listed as probable for the game. Redskins might have to call on their young cornerbacks to fill in those vacated spots. All this coming with the Redskins squaring off against Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos this upcoming weekend.

Does the punishment fit the crime or is the NFL softening up on a repeat offender?