The NFL is facing scrutiny after minority owner Javier Loya pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of harassment with intent to annoy. The question now is whether he will face consequences under the league’s Personal Conduct Policy. Despite not controlling the Texans, Loya’s situation will be compared to how players are typically punished.
The perception is that there are two different standards in place, even though the league claims that non-players are held to a higher standard than players. It remains uncertain how the NFL will address Loya’s misdemeanor charge and what impact it will have on his role within the team and the league moving forward.
Loya’s attorney Andrew J. Sarne has stated that Loya agreed to step down from football activities and the diversity committee while the matter was pending for nearly a year. Although he has not had a chance to sit down with the Texans or the NFL since charges were dismissed, he looks forward to meeting with them about his situation.