To: Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the NFL

Excessive Punishment in the NFL

In no way should this petition be considered support for the behaviors of the individuals who participated in the bounty program. While punishment is warranted for participation in willful violation of league rules, punishments should be commensurate with the violation and applied consistently throughout the league. Under the current structure, Roger Goodell has sole discretion over punishments related to violation of professional conduct with no method of appeal. The suspension of Sean Peyton for one year is excessive and has profound implications for the team, players, and most importantly the fan base. As a long time support of the New Orleans Saints and the NFL, I am extremely disappointed and outraged about this decision. I will not purchase or support any NFL products for the entire period of Sean Peyton's suspension. It is my hope that Roger Goodell will reconsider his decision and take into account the impact of his decisions on those who really make the league successful, the fans. Those individuals who by tickets, merchandise, and tune in each week to watch their favorite team compete to play in the Superbowl. Mr. Goodell, do you remember us?

Why is this important?

Those who follow sports, particularly the NFL, are likely familiar with the New Orleans Saints "Bountygate" scandal. Roger Goodell's recent suspension of New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Peyton for one year for his failure to stop the bounty program that he did not participate in is not only excessive it is punative to the entire organization, players, and the fans.