Update:
The NFLPA has released a statement regarding the changes that have been made to the NFL’s domestic violence policy.
“We were informed today of the NFL’s decision to increase penalties on domestic violence offenders under the Personal Conduct Policy for all NFL employees. As we do in all disciplinary matters, if we believe that players’ due process rights are infringed upon during the course of discipline, we will assert and defend our members’ rights.”
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The National Football League announced changes to their domestic violence policy, according to Jane McManus.
Moving forward, first-time offenders will receive a six game suspension and a second offense will result in a lifetime bad from the NFL.
- ESPN’s Adam Schefter mentions that the changes will apply to all NFL personnel.
- Goodell reportedly had “multiple conversations” with NFLPA head DeMaurice Smith, but didn’t receive consent from the union, according to Andrew Brandt.
- Tom Pelissero mentions that the NFLPA doesn’t need to sign off on these chances seeing as they fall under personal conduct.
- Roger Goodell says that domestic violence incidents prior to joining NFL could lead to increased discipline for first-time offenders, per Mike Garafolo.
Commissioner Roger Goodell included a statement to the owners regarding the changes.
“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. Simply put, we have to do better. And we will.“
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Mark Maske of the Washington Post reports that the NFL is considering longer penalties for future domestic violence cases.
According to Maske, the league is weighing the possibility of enforcing four to six games suspensions without pay for a first-time offenders. A second offense could result in a year-long suspension.
As of now, the NFL has yet to make any final decisions regarding the topic and potential policy changes, but they are at least considering ideas.
This comes not long after the league suspended Ravens RB Ray Rice for two games after he knocked out his wife months ago.
One of Maske’s sources mentioned that there could be more news or an announcement made in the coming weeks regarding this matter.
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