Earlier this month we reported that former Redskins defensive coordinator Gregg Williams was in hot water with NFL brass for reportedly paying his players to intentionally injure opposing players during play. He has now been suspended indefinitely by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
The league, which led the investigation, determined that Williams, Redskins defensive coordinator from 2004-2007, ran an illegal bounty program in the past few years with the New Orleans Saints as his players were paid extra money for big hits.
Former players stated that they “received money from Williams for big hits during their time with the Redskins, with former defensive end Phillip Daniels telling the Washington Post he received $1,500 following a game in 2005 after recording four sacks.
So what is the extent of the penalty to everyone involved? Gregg Williams is suspended indefinitely. Saints coach Sean Payton is suspended for one year. General manager Mickey Loomis is suspended for the first eight regular-season games. The team was fined $500,000 and lost two second-round draft picks (one in 2012 and ’13).
“We are all accountable and responsible for player health and safety and the integrity of the game,” stated Goodell in an announcement of the punishments. “We will not tolerate conduct or a culture that undermines those priorities. No one is above the game or the rules that govern it. Respect for the game and the people who participate in it will not be compromised”
This is what makes the NFL the greatest league on the planet – they will not tolerate teams nor players stepping out of line. There is no steroids epidemic and Ron Artest is not beating up fans in this league. Job well done Goodell. Who spells their name with one ‘g’ anyway? Greg Williams?
Follow