Roger Goodell -- Results of NFL's coaching diversity efforts 'unacceptable'

The results of the NFL's coaching diversity efforts are «unacceptable,» commissioner Roger Goodell said in a memo issued to all clubs Saturday morning.

The memo, titled «Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,» surfaced four days after the NFL called claims in coach Brian Flores' lawsuit over discrimination in the hiring process «without merit.»

Flores, fired by the Miami Dolphins Jan. 10 despite back-to-back winning seasons, hopes to «shine a light on the racial injustices that take place inside the NFL,» according to his lawsuit filed this week.

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is the league's only current Black head coach.

«Racism and any form of discrimination is contrary to the NFL's values,» Goodell stated. «We have made significant efforts to promote diversity and adopted numerous policies and programs which have produced positive change in many areas, however we must acknowledge that particularly with respect to head coaches the results have been unacceptable. We will reevaluate and examine all policies, guidelines and initiatives relating to diversity, equity and inclusions.»

The memo also stressed that «we understand the concerns» of Flores and others this week.

Flores' lawsuit seeks unspecified damages from the NFL while aiming to increase influence of Black individuals in the hiring process, objectivity of hiring for prominent positions and transparency in pay, among other issues. Flores is suing the Denver Broncos and New York Giants, alleging discrimination during interview processes, along with the Dolphins over his firing last month and owner Stephen Ross' efforts to undermine Flores' job. Among Flores' claims: Ross tried to incentivize Flores to lose games with $100,000 bonuses for each