Rodgers backs NFL security decisions as Paris disruptions mount

Aaron Rodgers expressed confidence in the NFL's handling of security in Paris on Friday, October 23, as protests and severe weather disrupted activities around the Pittsburgh Steelers' game against the New Orleans Saints. The Associated Press reported that Sunday's fixture at Stade de France remained on the schedule despite unrest in the French capital.

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Speaking at a hotel after the Steelers arrived, Rodgers said he believed the league understood the situation and would not have brought the teams to Paris if conditions were unsafe. His comments conveyed confidence in the NFL's judgement, rather than a guarantee about the weekend. Steelers coach Mike McCarthy also expressed confidence in the team's experience, according to AP's report published by Sportsnet.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had addressed the security preparations on Wednesday. AP reported that he had spoken with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and that officials were maintaining contact with authorities in Paris and elsewhere in France. Goodell said the league had made preparations and would ensure appropriate arrangements were in place. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said the situation had not affected his team's plans.

US President Donald Trump took a different position on Friday, suggesting the league could have postponed the game, AP reported separately. Security demands have already changed the city's sporting schedule: Paris Saint-Germain's home match against Lyon was moved from Sunday to Monday evening at the request of Paris police.

The US State Department issued an alert on Thursday urging Americans attending the NFL game to remain cautious. It warned that demonstrations could change routes or occur outside planned areas. A Steelers fan event was also cancelled because of security concerns.

Weather caused separate disruptions on Friday. Pittsburgh cancelled its planned morning practice at Stade de France, while the Saints' session in Versailles was closed to media viewing because of wind and rain, AP reported. A flag football event near the Eiffel Tower was also called off. The cancellations affected preparations and public activities, but did not amount to an announcement that the Steelers-Saints game itself had been postponed.