In an encouraging instance of the NFL and the NFL Players’ Association coming together and reaching an agreement on a potentially contentious issue, the two parties announced that they have agreed to changes to the on-field discipline rules, effective with the start of the season.
The changes include:
- The addition of a second appeals officer, Ted Cottrell, to join Art Shell in hearing all appeals of on-field player discipline.
- The NFL and NFLPA will equally share in all fees and expenses for Shell and Cottrell, meaning they won’t be swayed by worrying about pleasing the side that pays them.
- During the first 13 weeks of the season, fines will not be collected prior to the hearing of the appeal.
- Fines for on-field violations during the 14th week or later will be collected in full immediately.
In announcing the agreement, the league said it was the result of discussions between Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith. Here’s hoping talks between Goodell and Smith continue to be productive.