NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced Sunday that Joe B, Jr., the former president of the NFL Players Association, will lead the league’s investigation into the domestic abuse of women players, as well as the league itself.
Goodell’s announcement comes on the heels of a scathing report by The New York Times that revealed widespread misconduct by NFL players and coaches.
Goodell announced the findings of the investigation in a statement, saying that “the culture of professional sports is built on a foundation of trust and respect and we cannot tolerate conduct that undermines the integrity of that trust and the integrity and safety of our players and fans.”
Goodell said the investigation is aimed at finding ways to address the underlying causes of the violence against women.
“Our focus is on what happened in the past, not how we may address it in the future,” Goodell said.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. “
This is a serious matter, and we are committed not just to addressing it, but to ensuring that we address it as soon as possible.”
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
AP The Times story detailed allegations of rampant sexual assault by coaches, including by Cowboys coach Jason Garrett.
The Times article detailed allegations that the Cowboys’ Garrett raped a woman and was arrested after the incident in 2014.
In a statement released by the NFL, Garrett said that he “will not be able to continue to lead this organization if this report is true.
I have always said that I will never condone the mistreatment of any woman and that this is unacceptable.”
Goodell also said that his office will “examine all available options to prevent this type of abuse from occurring again.”
Goodell added that the investigation into players and the NFL itself is being led by a “senior member” who has “an extensive background in law enforcement.”
The New Orleans Saints, who have been embroiled in an internal investigation for their handling of the Ray Rice domestic abuse case, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Goodell and NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle are scheduled to meet Sunday.
The NFL is also considering changes to the league charter, which will allow for a more inclusive approach to disciplining players and allowing for more public input.