Have you noticed that NFL players seem to be in the news more and more these days for the wrong things?

Recently, Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones dropped his appeal of a year-long suspension. Jones had been arrested five times since he was drafted in 2005.

Chicago Bears nose tackle Tank Johnson was hit with an eight-game suspension after police found unregistered firearms in his home--a violation of his probation. Johnson would be allowed to attend mini-camp and preseason games. Johnson's suspension could be reduced to six games if he stays out of trouble.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry was also suspended eight games for...well, a number of things. Henry has been arrested four times in 14 months.

Then, there is Michael Vick. Currently, the Atlanta Falcons quarterback is under investigation for his "connection with dog fighting." According to the New York Daily News, Vick could face up to five years in prison and a fine of $2,500. Even if he is not convicted, Vick could face a suspension from the NFL.

These guys are just a few of the discipline problems that NFL commissioner Roger Goddell has to deal with. Since the stronger conduct policy has been released, players see now that Goddell is serious about cleaning up the image of the NFL. Not only are individual players punished for their conduct, teams are punished as well.

The policy covers players, coaches, and all full-time employees of the NFL just to name a few. So what does that mean?

It means that these guys need to get their act together FAST!!!! Players cannot afford to be caught in the wrong place at the wrong time doing the wrong things. Sometimes, players forget the fact that they are representing more than just themselves. They are representing their family, their hometowns, and the organization that they are under contract with. Keep in mind that these people are paid very well to do their jobs. The least they could do is stay out of trouble.

On top of that, some players forget that they are being watched by a younger audience. There are kids who are just starting their football careers across the country. The NFL players cannot lead by example if they are all lining up to meet with Goddell about their issues off the field.

Even with the new policy being enforced, is it enough?

It is and here's why. If you take away a person's ability to do what they love, they will suffer. Fines can only do so much damage. Players can usually do without money simply because they make large amounts of money. However, none of that matters if they can't play. Also, making teams accountable for their players' actions was a great idea. It ensures that the coaches and owners stay on their players about doing the right thing.

Now the question is, how many more players are going to have to be fined, suspended or potentially have their careers ended before the message is truly received.

You must be logged in to comment.