Boomer Esiason warns NFL Paris game could fuel unrest
Former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason expressed concern that the league's scheduled game in Paris might exacerbate ongoing protests, while the NFL confirmed the event will proceed as planned.
The NFL’s International Series will feature the New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers at Stade de France on Sunday, despite ongoing protests and demonstrations in the city. The unrest began as student-led protests over school conditions and has expanded into broader anti-government actions, resulting in property damage and arrests.
During a radio interview, former quarterback Boomer Esiason questioned the decision to hold the game amid the turmoil. > “They claim where they are going that there is no unrest. But if you want to amplify your unrest, the best way to do it would be around an NFL football game in France. It is ugly over there right now, and it’s basically uncontrolled… I don’t necessarily know that the French government has the stones to put it to rest. But right now, it’s about as bad as it’s ever been.”
The league issued a statement reaffirming that preparations continue and that it is working closely with local authorities on security matters. The NFL said there has been no disruption to league sites and that the two clubs are receiving regular updates.
Paris police have imposed a curfew from 11 p.m. Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday, and reports indicate that about 1,500 shops have been damaged and more than 2,000 arrests have been made. The NFL has not indicated any change to the venue, and no comment has been made by Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers regarding the situation.