The NFL is standing firmly behind Jay-Z, continuing their collaboration despite a recent civil lawsuit that alleges the Roc Nation CEO committed a serious crime involving a 13-year-old girl. This lawsuit, filed in early December, has raised significant concerns but the league appears committed to maintaining their partnership.

During a press conference on Wednesday, December 11, prior to the highly anticipated Christmas Day games on Netflix, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was questioned about the league’s ongoing partnership with Jay-Z. Goodell emphasized that there are no plans to alter their collaboration in the near future, indicating the NFL’s strong commitment to their relationship with Roc Nation.

“We’re fully aware of the serious civil allegations and have noted Jay-Z’s robust response to them,” Goodell stated. “Given that litigation is currently in progress, we see no reason to change our relationship with Roc Nation, especially as we prepare for the upcoming Super Bowl, where Jay-Z’s involvement is significant.”

Jay-Z entered into a partnership with the NFL back in 2019, allowing Roc Nation to take charge of producing various entertainment events for the league. This includes the much-anticipated Super Bowl Halftime Show, set to feature Kendrick Lamar as the headliner when the game takes place in New Orleans in February 2025. This partnership has been pivotal in blending sports and entertainment in innovative ways.

Recently, Jay-Z faced serious accusations, including a claim that he raped a 13-year-old girl at an MTV Video Music Awards afterparty in 2000, with Diddy also implicated. The civil lawsuit, brought forth by an anonymous individual and Texas attorney Tony Buzbee, has created a significant stir in the media and public discourse. Jay-Z has publicly denounced the claims, labeling the allegations as an outrageous attack on his character.

The influential Brooklyn rap mogul swiftly issued a statement vehemently denying all allegations directed at him, specifically targeting attorney Buzbee for his role in this case. Jay-Z’s response highlighted his disapproval of how the legal system is being manipulated for personal gain.

“You have misjudged the situation by assuming that all ‘celebrities’ behave in the same manner,” Jay-Z stated. “I come from a very different background, having risen from the projects of Brooklyn. In my community, we adhere to strict codes of conduct and honor. We prioritize the safety of our children, while you seem intent on exploiting situations for your benefit. Only those within your conspiracy theorist circle will accept the absurd claims you have made against me, which, were it not for the serious implications regarding child welfare, would be laughable. I eagerly anticipate demonstrating how I stand apart from those you seek to malign.”

Jay-Z expressed sorrow for how this situation affects his family, indicating that he and his wife may need to explain the distressing nature of these allegations to their children, particularly to their daughter, who is at an age where she will likely hear about the press coverage. “I mourn yet another loss of innocence,” he lamented, reflecting on the impact of such accusations on his family’s peace of mind.

For a complete understanding of this situation, watch Roger Goodell’s detailed response below.