In-game performance has a big impact on how NFL players are perceived but legal issues appear to carry nearly as much weight to the average fan.
American ticket vendor TickPick recently conducted a survey of over 1,500 NFL fans to see which actions affect fan sentiment the most. Fifty-seven percent of respondents said a player's run-ins with the law would shape their perception of them, compared to 61.2 percent who stated a player's success in games impacts how fans view them.
Domestic and sexual violence drew more condemnation than drug use across all fanbases:
When it comes to social stances, three-quarters of respondents found it acceptable for players to voice their opinions on issues of racial injustice and police brutality.
Roughly half the fans surveyed said a full-season suspension would be appropriate for players convicted of domestic violence.
