The NFL has stringent conduct policies that apply to players, and the rules also apply to team owners.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, who was arrested and booked early Monday morning on charges of drunken driving and possession of a controlled substance, will be subject to discipline under the league’s personal conduct policy, according to Pro Football Talk, citing an email from the league.
The NFL revised the policy in 2007 to include longer suspensions and larger fines for those who violate it. Commissioner Roger Goodell also added measures to hold teams responsible.
“All persons associated with the NFL are required to avoid ‘conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the National Football League,’” the policy states. “This requirement applies to players, coaches, other team employees, owners, game officials and all others privileged to work in the National Football League.”
The policy requires anyone arrested or charged to “undergo a formal clinical evaluation,” which could result in the person being required to participate in treatment.
Other coaches and executives have been disciplined for drunken driving allegations in recent years, including Matt Russell and Tom Heckert of the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand.
Lewand was suspended 30 days and fined $100,000. The suspension later was reduced to 21 days.
Photo via Twitter/@michaelgferrara
