🎧 The Advocate Next Door: Episode 29 An Advocate for Equality in the NFL (Sports Law with N. Jeremi Duru)

Published on February 4, 2025

We welcome Professor N. Jeremi Duru, a renowned sports law expert and professor at American University’s Washington College of Law. Professor Duru shares his journey from studying at Brown and Harvard to a career that transitioned from civil rights litigation to shaping the landscape of sports law. We delve into his pivotal work addressing racial inequality in the NFL, his expertise across contracts, trademarks, and employment discrimination, and his insights on emerging issues. Offering guidance to aspiring sports lawyers, he unpacks the challenges and rewards of this multifaceted field, weaving in personal stories and reflections on balancing a demanding career with his love for sports.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

00:44 Meet Professor Jeremi Duru

01:41 Early Life and Education

02:07 Journey into Law and Civil Rights

03:01 Transition to Sports Law

06:16 Exploring Sports Law

28:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Bio:

N. Jeremi Duru is a Professor of Law at American University’s Washington College of Law and a leading expert in sports law. He has authored influential works in the field, including Sports Law and Regulation, The Business of Sports Agents, and Advancing the Ball, which explores diversity and equity in NFL coaching and leadership. A frequent media commentator, Professor Duru also advises sports professionals and organizations, such as the Fritz Pollard Alliance, advocating for minority representation in the NFL.

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/n-jeremi-duru/

Washington College of Law (American University): https://www.american.edu/wcl/faculty/jduru.cfm

CV: https://www.american.edu/uploads/docs/wcl_cv_duru.pdf