NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's hard line against players who run afoul of the law and NFL rules had team management intent on drafting players of character. Teams not only want to avoid the cost - in dollars and in public opinion - of players with character flaws, but they also realize that "character guys" contribute to winning team chemistry.
Perhaps the best thing about the NFL's approach is that it brings into the league more players who are more likely to serve as role models for youth players. It also sends a message to youth coaches that it's OK, in fact very desirable and sensible, to consider players on the basis of character, and not just talent.
So, what effect does this trend have on the way youth football coaches manage their team's personnel? It depends on whether your organization has you draft players or you simply work with the players you are given. It also depends on what you, as a youth coach, have to offer and hope to achieve.
As a football coach, you have a tremendous opportunity to work with troubled youth to set them on the path to becoming contributing members of the community. Consider ways to give them leadership opportunities. For example, show some trust by naming those players captains - even if it's just for coin flips or leading pre-game warm-ups - or give those players specific tasks or objectives through which they can earn that trust. Remember, even though it can be tempting, don't just work with the players who will make your life easier.
At the same time, be aware of the urge to play and praise your most physically talented athletes without taking their character into consideration. In the long run, you do neither them, nor the other players on your team, any favors. It is critical that strong-character players come to the fore as team leaders.
Ideally, your most talented player also exhibits the greatest character, setting an example for teammates that hard work pays off. Assuming everyone wants to excel, but not everyone has the will to work for excellence, a top player of great character can uplift the others by demonstrating that hard work pays off.
Of course, great character is not confined just to hard work. It also concerns many other traits, such as honesty, loyalty, empathy, sacrifice, humility, patience and perseverance. As you build your team, look for signs of those even more than you look for size or speed or brute strength, and you will find ways to win on and off the field.
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This article is the fifth in a series of articles created exclusively for USA Football as part of Responsible Sports. This national program brings together USA Football, Liberty Mutual and Positive Coaching Alliance in an effort to benefit millions of youth athletes, parents and coaches.