The NFLPA on Friday "cleared rapper Jay Z's Roc Nation Sports and agent Kim Miale of wrongdoing" in the recruitment of Jets QB Geno Smith, according to a source cited by Tom Pelissero of USA TODAY. The union had been investigating whether Jay Z, "who is not a certified NFL agent, recruited Smith against union rules before this past year's draft." But the NFLPA in a memo to all agents "clarified the so-called 'runner rule,' saying it permits non-certified associates to attend an introductory meeting with potential clients to present the full range of services offered by the agency." The meeting "must take place at the agent's place of business and is limited to one per potential client." No further contact may occur "between the potential client and the agent's uncertified business associates." The memo read, "Additionally, it must be made abundantly clear to the potential player client that only the Certified Contract Advisor can advise the player on his NFL Player Contract, and only the Certified Contract Advisor can negotiate with NFL teams" (USATODAY.com, 12/7).
