First NFL player advisory council established
(April 6, 2007) -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in conjunction with the NFL Players Association has established the first NFL Player Advisory Council to advise the commissioner on a regular basis on a wide range of issues that affect players.
The six members of the council were selected by the NFLPA. It is comprised of safety Donovin Darius of the Jacksonville Jaguars, fullback Tony Richardson
of the Minnesota Vikings,
center Jeff Saturday of the Indianapolis Colts, linebacker Takeo Spikes of the Philadelphia Eagles, wide receiver James Thrash of the Washington Redskins, and free-agent safety Troy Vincent, who is president of the NFL Players Association.
The Player Advisory Council will meet regularly throughout the year with Commissioner Goodell and NFLPA Executive Director Gene Upshaw to discuss competition on the field, player safety, medical and health issues, player conduct, retired player issues, and other matters.
"It is important that we know the perspective of players on issues that impact our game and our league," said Goodell. "We all share the same goal of improving the NFL in every way we can. Veteran leadership is critically important for our teams in many areas. These outstanding veterans can help the entire league just as they help their teams."
"This is the first time in NFL history that a commissioner has used a group of current players in an advisory capacity," said Upshaw. "The players are a great resource for our game and this is a direct way of getting their input. This is a good example of how the new commissioner is leading through strong communication. We appreciate what he is doing."