NFL : Goodell examines discipline, rules

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell could announce new initiatives that will allow him to impose harsher and quicker discipline for players who get into trouble off the field.

League spokesman Greg Aiello said Wednesday during a conference call that Goodell could use his first full league meeting, to be held next week in Phoenix, to address the arrests and other off-field episodes that plagued the league in the last year.

Most of the conference call was devoted to recommendations for changes in playing rules made by the competition committee.

Proposals include:

“Moving the kickoff in overtime from the 30-yard-line, the spot in regulation, to the 35.

“Players would be assessed a 5-yard penalty for spiking the ball on the field after a play, although spiking will still be allowed in the end zone and out of bounds.

“Putting a communication device on a defensive player that will allow him to talk to a coach before the play just as the quarterback does. If that player is injured, the defense will have to revert to signals with the sideline.

“Instant replay on all penalties except offensive holding. Penalties are currently not reviewable.

“Assessing a 15-yard penalty on defensive pass interference except on what are deemed flagrant fouls.

Upshaw re-elected

Gene Upshaw was re-elected for his ninth consecutive three-year term as executive director of the NFL Players Association at a meeting in Wailea, Hawaii.

Bears sign assistants

The Chicago Bears signed eight assistant coaches to three-year contracts, including offensive coordinator Ron Turner and new defensive coordinator Bob Babich.

Around the league

The Houston Texans agreed in principle to acquire Matt Schaub from the Atlanta Falcons. … Oakland Raiders running back Dominic Rhodes pleaded guilty to reckless driving after prosecutors dropped drunken driving charges against him. … The Washington Redskins signed free-agent safety Omar Stoutmire. … Defensive tackle Dan Klecko signed a one-year contract to stay with the Indianapolis Colts. … Free-agent defensive tackle Montae Reagor signed a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. … Philadelphia coach Andy Reid will return from a temporary leave of absence Friday. … Ernie Wright, an All-Pro offensive lineman for the San Diego Chargers and Cincinnati Bengals, died of cancer Tuesday night in San Diego. He was 67.