Roger Goodell confirms tougher sanctions in new NFL personal conduct policy

NFL owners have unanimously approved a new personal conduct policy, the league's commissioner Roger Goodell has announced.

Live NFL

The new policy takes effect immediately and covers a more extensive list of prohibited conduct after a year that has seen the league blighted by ugly front page headlines.

Former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice was banned earlier this season - the ban has since been overturned - after an incident of domestic violence against his then fiancee and Minnesota Vikings rusher Adrian Peterson remains suspended after pleading guilty to misdemeanour reckless assault charges after hitting his four-year-old son.

A six-game suspension without pay for violations involving assault, sexual assault, battery, domestic violence, child abuse and other forms of family violence will be in effect, but with consideration given to mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

"The policy is comprehensive," Goodell said. "It is strong. It is tough. And it is better for everyone associated with the NFL.

"I have stated it many times: Being part of the NFL is a privilege. It is not a right. The measures adopted today uphold that principle.

"With considerable assistance from the many people and organizations we consulted, NFL ownership has endorsed an enhanced policy that is significantly more robust, thorough, and formal."

But the tougher penalties have been criticised by the NFL Players Association, who have complained that Goodell issued the new policy without consulting them.

"Our union has not been offered the professional courtesy of seeing the NFL's new personal conduct policy before it hit the presses," a statement said. "Their unilateral decision and conduct today is the only thing that has been consistent over the past few months."