NFL May Create Panel to Handle Arrests

The NFL is considering creating a panel of outside experts to determine penalties for players who have been arrested for crimes, but are still awaiting trial, according to memo sent by Commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday. “What is the process for placing someone on paid leave status? Should these decisions be made by a third party, or a panel of outsiders, or should they be made by the commissioner?” Goodell writes. The memo was sent in advance of an owners’ meeting to be held Wednesday. It brings up concerns about when a player should be placed on leave and whether he should be paid or unpaid.