Roger Goodell admits mistake in Ray Rice suspension, institutes much harsher penalities
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| Ray Rice received a two game suspension for this |
However, if something were to happen again, he could be gone. Forever.
It was rumored that the NFL was planning on instituting a stricter penalty for domestic violence after the outcry of the public when Rice received a slap on the wrist. The Baltimore Ravens running back was, of course, seen on camera dragging the body of his unconscious (now) wife out of an elevator.
In the wake of the NBA's recent crackdown on Donald Sterling, the NFL's lack of action on the Rice case - compared to a year suspension for Browns receiver Josh Gordon, who smoked weed - was not received well.
Goodell was silent for quite awhile, but has now taken action to remedy the situation at least.
Roger Goodell's letter to NFL owners, per Albert Breer:
My disciplinary decision led the public to question our sincerity, our commitment and whether we understood the toll that domestic violence inflicts on so many families. I take responsibility both for the decision and for ensuring that our actions in the future properly reflect our values. I didn’t get it right. These steps are based on a clear, simple principle: domestic violence and sexual assault are wrong.
The new policy that Goodell is instituting is six games for a first offense of domestic violence or sexual assault. Though, it could be more depending on "mitigating circumstances". A second offense warrants a lifetime ban from the league.
Certainly, this is a complete 180 from the NFL's past policy. Goodell also outlined an education program about domestic violence and other initiatives.
Perhaps the most significant thing to come from this, aside from a respectable policy on domestic violence, is Goodell admitting that he messed up.
That's no saving grace, but its a start for the unpopular Commissioner.
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