12/5/02

STATEMENT FROM COMMISSIONER TAGLIABUE:

Few - - if any - - individuals outside the NFL family had as large an impact on the popularity and public acceptance of pro football then Roone Arledge.  His tremendous broadcast contributions to our game already have been recognized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Ironically, Roone was present at the ceremony three years ago when the late Pete Rozelle was recognized as the most influential sports figure of the 20^th Century.  If he were alive, Pete would have said that it was his friend Roone Arledge who deserved that award.