NFL Closes Its Loophole on Reporters

The ambiguity in an NFL policy that allowed a reporter to be barred from Raider training camp last season is being removed, according to Commissioner Paul Tagliabue.

Eric Noland, a reporter for the Daily News of Los Angeles, was barred from the Raiders’ camp in Oxnard because the team believed his coverage was negative.

“The policy was ambiguous,” Tagliabue said. “But that loophole is being closed and the matter is resolved. We’re going to spell it out.”

Tagliabue, meeting with a group of sports editors to discuss media issues, explained the Raiders’ action this way: “The Raiders have historically had a policy of club prerogative that is unique.”

The Raiders have long had a stormy relationship with the NFL, and the Raiders’ constant threat of moving has been perplexing to the league.

“Yesterday (at the NFL draft), I wanted to announce that for the 22nd pick in the draft, the Raiders have selected Orlando,” Tagliabue said. “Just to see if everyone was on their toes.”