NFL

NFL Steps Up To the Plate, Delivers With New Domestic Violence Policy

NFL Logo

Getty Images

You have to give credit where credit is due, and the NFL deserves credit when it comes to its new domestic violence policies. First time offenders will now be banned for six games, and second time offenders will be banned for life.

Roger Goodell explained the league’s new policy via a letter, which was obtained by ESPN:

“At times, however, and despite our best efforts, we fall short of our goals. We clearly did so in response to a recent incident of domestic violence. 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.”

“Among the circumstances that would merit a more severe penalty would be a prior incident before joining the NFL, or violence involving a weapon, choking, repeated striking, or when the act is committed against a pregnant woman or in the presence of a child. A second offense will result in banishment from the NFL.”

This is a great sign that the NFL gets it. They screwed up the Ray Rice situation, and flat out dropped the ball. This issue had to be addressed, and the right move was made to address it quickly before the start of the 2014 season.

It’s real simple now — if you’re involved in a domestic violence situation, you lose your football privileges. That’s the way it should be.

Share Tweet