USAT reports that the NFL hired a lobbyist.

“We needed representation in Washington certainly with what we’re doing with the NFL Network and our aspirations to have the network,” [Jerry] Jones said. “That’s just one theory that you want to keep your voice down there in the Washington area.”

But Jones said hiring [lobbyist Jeff] Miller could help the NFL as it tackles other issues, including the league’s upcoming negotiation of the collective bargaining agreement with the players’ union.