The Baltimore Ravens have gotten the message loud and clear: NFL commissioner Roger Goodell means business.
On Monday, Goodell suspended Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson for the first eight games of the season without pay for violating the NFL?s new personal conduct policy. Johnson, who could have his suspension reduced to six games if he stays out of trouble and gets counseling, just served two months in jail for violating his parole on gun-related charges.
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Johnson is the third player suspended for violating the NFL?s new policy, following the season-long suspension of Tennessee Titan defensive back Adam “Pac-Man” Jones and the eight-game suspension of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry.
“He?s trying to make example of guys,” Ravens tight end Daniel Wilcox said. “He?s warning everybody with the things he?s doing to Pac-Man Jones and Tank Johnson to get your stuff together. It?s not like people don?t know what?s going on. People are definitely paying attention. You?ve got to get your stuff together, do the right thing and stay out of trouble.”
The Ravens have had a few brushes with the law recently. Return specialist B.J. Sams was acquitted last month on charges of driving under the influence and negligent driving, and quarterback Steve McNair is currently dealing with DUI charges.
Ravens offensive tackle Jason Brown said players are now going to be doing a lot of second-guessing before putting themselves in a position that could lead to a suspension.
“Take care of your own business off the field,” Brown said. “Coach [Brian] Billick emphasized this to all of us: Make smart decisions. When we go out on the weekends, make sure that if a name appears in the newspapers that you?re not that guy. Every single one of us has to take responsibility for our own actions.”
Ravens kicker and player representative Matt Stover said he doesn?t have a problem with Goodell?s decisions since players in general don?t want their reputations sullied by the actions of a few who make negative headlines. The new policy also comes with the support of the NFL Players Association and player advisory counsel.
“The No. 1 thing is I want the system to be fair,” Stover said. “As a player, I want everyone to be treated equally. I just want the system to be consistent and to be fair. If Roger Goodell is the man I hope he is, then I?m fine with the way he?s been going about his business.”
