What set you from?

I like how Roger Goodell has gotten on player conduct, but this is a little on the ridiculous side. The NFL is reviewing film to identify hand gestures to determine if players are flashing gang signs! VP of security Milt Ahlerich said that the experts being consulted are looking for, "symbols, clothing, jewelry or other items that would signify an association with criminal gang enterprises." Although no punishment has been defined the league intends says that, "it will be dealth with harshly."

Really? The NFL is concerned about it's image, and the commissioner is driving to improve it, but this is bordering on paranoia. Here's and interesting scenario: What if a guy has a tattoo on his arm that is symbolic of the place he grew up. Not only that, but it's also known for its gang activity as well. Is the league going to continually fine/suspend him for having the tattoo? I'm not saying that it's OK for pro athletes to be throwing up gang signs on national tv. They are role models for kids. That being said the penalty should be no stiffer than the penalty for swearing or giving the middel finger. They have not broken any laws. So why punish them as harshly as those that do? What determines a gang sign from secret team communications?

In the league's effort to clean up its image they have become heavy handed in my opinion. You cannot wear those cleats, because they aren't league approved. You can't celebrate in the endzone. Where are they going to draw the line? Not that the NFL isn't concerned with their image, but the reality is that endorsements are driving the issue. The NBA and MLB have for more tarnished images than the NFL. Endorsement deals carry with them a lot of dollars, and the NFL doesn't want to do anything jeopardize that. Would head coaches wearing suits on the sideline promote a positive image for the NFL? Of course it would, but Reebok doesn't make suits. Jack Del Rio and Mike Nolan had to have them specially made, and the league only approved them to be worn a few times. Bill Belichick looks like a bum on the sidelines, and that's OK. The endorsement dollars are the driving force behind of fair amount of league policy, and really embracing the moniker No. Fun. League!

The floor is now open.