NFL Draft 2012: The Real Motive Behind Roger Goodell's Elaborate Handshakes

Last night’s opening of the 2012 NFL Draft represented the passing of the torch of sorts, as Peyton Manning’s replacement—Andrew Luck—was welcomed into the league by Commissioner Roger Goodell along with the rest of the 32 first round selections.

It is well documented that Goodell has no qualms about making it clear who the face of the NFL is—himself. However, with seemingly every move this man has made over the years being precisely calculated, it is hard not to wonder about the rationale behind the less-than-classic handshakes he engaged in with the players last night.

It has nothing to do with image, and it begs the question: Why?

Why did the commissioner of the NFL feel it necessary to inject a little swag into the welcoming party? What made this year more special than years past to the extent that Goddell introduced his street version of patty cakes? And how did he pull it off much to the delight of everyone?

What was going through defensive end Melvin Ingram’s mind when Goodell pulled him aside prior to the draft to rehearse the routine, because there is no way Goodell pulls that off without practice right?

Was this Goodell’s attempt to balance out the mood at last year’s draft when most of the players were timid amidst the lockout?

It is quite possible that Goodell’s attempt to level with the draftees was his way of showing them that he in fact is the mediator of the traditional player versus owner mantra. The fact that Goodell's first mandate is for the entire NFL to succeed as a business makes it difficult for him to align himself with the players, who in reality detract from the maximum profitability of the owners and the league as a whole.

With all the negativity that has transpired in the NFL over the last couple years with the lockout and Bountygate, Goodell likely saw an opportunity to lighten the atmosphere a bit and to help establish relationships with future employees, for which he should be commended.

Goodell’s unanticipated hand jive may have come across as a simple gesture to help close the gap that caused last year’s lockout. However, it speaks volumes about a potential culture change that he wants reciprocated throughout the league. It will just be interesting to see if this new Gooddell survives once he starts ruling with an iron fist again come September.

Contact Jeremy at [e-mail], on Twitter @KCPopFlyBoy and read more at popflyboys.com.