The NFL is in the process of revising the personal conduct policy per Roger Goodell’s New York press conference back in September. The NFL Players Association wants input in crafting the policy in an effort to make it more transparent and to make the process for punishment more consistent. In that vein, the union sent a proposal on commissioner discipline to the league, a copy of which was obtained by CBSSports.com.

The union’s proposal breaks out the handling of punishments into various parts and would create a significant change with the way the process is currently handled. (Roger Goodell currently rules on personal conduct matters and hears player appeals himself.) 

Violent Crimes

Essentially any felony charge with allegations of both 1) domestic violence, sexual assault or bodily harm to another person and 2) aggravating circumstances (presence or use of a weapon, involving a child or pregnant woman, for example). The initial inquiries into the Ray Rice, Adrian Peterson and Greg Hardy matters could all potentially fall under this subsection.

However, the union’s proposal constricts the commissioner’s power in these matters. The NFLPA’s proposal calls for no discipline from either the club or the commissioner based on just an arrest or pending charges. 

Discipline would be handled once the matter is disposed, although either the player and club OR the NFL and NFLPA can reach an agreement to allow the player to take a paid voluntary leave of absence. 

Any games missed by the player on voluntary leave would qualify as time served under the union’s proposal.

Adrian Peterson hasn't played since Week 1. (Getty Images)
Adrian Peterson would not be suspended for his actions under proposed NFLPA rules. (Getty Images)

Other Crimes

No punishment would be meted out by the commissioner or the club — including termination of contract — until the matter is disposed of. 

Counseling

The Commissioner can ask players to meet with a psychiatrist (picked by the player) to be evaluated clinically after charges or an indictment are filed under the union’s proposal. And any player who is convicted of or admits to violating the law in a violent manner can undergo mandatory counseling from a doctor chosen by the NFL and NFLPA. Additional counseling programs are an option based on the original evaluation.

Investigations

The NFLPA demanded an attorney present during investigation interviews (all interviews, not just player interviews) related to player crimes. Additionally the NFLPA wants to review any independent investigation results before reports are issued.

Neutral Arbitration in Appeals

The NFLPA’s proposal calls for a neutral arbitrator — one who can compel testimony from the league, players and clubs — to hear any appeals of player discipline.