The NFL 100 series is a series that the Athletic runs. It ranks the greatest players of football history. It might have been more logical to do this a year ago when the NFL unveiled its all-time team and celebrated its 100th anniversary.AdvertisementAt No. O.J. is at No. 41 on the Athletics list. Simpson makes sense, as the Buffalo Bills legend was first to rush for more than 2,000 yards in one season back in 1973 when there were only 14 games. Only seven other rushers ever reached 2K. Titans Derrick Henry achieved it last season. Simpson's accomplishments on the field, he is still 21st in career running yards are undisputed.It's a good idea to get in touch with the stars of the game when you're putting together big projects like this. Tim Graham managed to get Simpson. The Athletic's Simpson piece was published on Friday. The outlet promoted it on Twitter.He speaks out about his complex legacy for the first time in 12 year.COMPLICATED LEGACYSimpson was found not guilty of the 1994 double murder of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. In a civil case for wrongful death, he was found responsible. Simpson fights to avoid paying damages. He has spent the intervening years in prison for armed theft and kidnapping. Simpson continues to make fun of the fact that he wasn't convicted for the murders. He also makes Olympus Has Fallen quips about the Capitol insurrection on January 6, and asks: Will justice be done for all?AdvertisementSimpson spoke on January 17th about his complex legacy. He said: Ive been in legal system and Ive had verdicts with which I disagree. But I believe in America's system. I believe in the jury system. So I felt that I had to respect it and tried to move on.He also lied. Simpson has not attempted to honor it as best as he could. For two-and-a half decades, he has vigorously opposed the payment of damages to Ron Goldman's family.AdvertisementIf Simpson is ready to talk about 1994, then it's a good reason to interview him in 2021. He doesn't bring anything new and discussing the arc his complicated legacy is a disgraceful gesture to his victims.There are many reasons to support The Athletic. Brittany Ghiroli and Katie Strang have done amazing, important and eye-opening reporting on sexual assault cases. You can find more information on the site.AdvertisementOrenthal James Simpson had the chance to quote "How many Americans would not like to live their lives?" Let's just say that The Athletic is following the path of a complex legacy.
