Jen_Lada's Blog

I just got off the phone with Atari Bigby - one of several Packers players who would be affected if the NFL decides to pass a proposed rule that would restrict the length of a player's hair.

Let's just say he's not panicing yet but he thinks it's a ridiculous proposal since players who opt to wear their hair longer are well aware of the dangers and risks involved. He wonders if it's more about cleaning up a so-called 'rebel' look of the league than safety concerns and also says tucking the locks into his helmet is not a realistic option... and one that would probably force most to go for the scissors anyway.

Bigby:

"At first I was kind of shocked. then I said to myself 'what do you expect?' I understand they're trying to clean up the league and the image of long hair that's a rebel kind of image and that's something the league is definately trying to get rid of."

"I'm not perfect. Al's (Harris) not perfect but if you check the track record you'll see that these are two good guys."

"If my hair was affecting me and the way I was playing, I would cut my hair. If it was affecting my job of course I would have to cut my hair but it doesn't affect my job at all. And as far as being recognized or whatever the refs know who you are when it's time to throw the flag. I've never had a ref throw a flag on me mistaking me for Al Harris."

"I'm a Rastafarian myself. I was born in Jamaica, grew up in Miami. That was a strong affect on my life. I know what it's about, I know what it means and the rule is definately against the religion. But more than that it's a personal choice and to have that taken away from you that's everything that's against America and freedom and your constitutional rights."

"I couldn't imagine stuffing my hair into my helmet. I don't know how that would work. Of course I respect the NFL. I respect Roger. I respect his authority and everybody's authority and I will try to do my best. But what are we talking about here? Stuff your hair in a helmet? You know who I am. I know who you are. It's not a uniform violation. It's not a part of the uniform. What's the problem - that's what I'm trying to figure out."

"I read in the collective bargaining agreement that a team can't tell a player how long or short to have his hair. But as far as being on the field... if my hair gets pulled then it's a flag. So it's kind of a catch 22. I don't know how it's gonna work out. I'm not really getting worked up about it - just sitting back and watching the way it plays out. But this is something I've been goning through my whole career."