What is the NFL commissioner's exempt list? Explaining meaning and more about Roger Goodell's executive power
Everything you need to know about the NFL's infrequently-used commissioner's exempt list.
The NFL commissioner's exempt list is a unique tool that allows the league to handle player discipline in a middle ground between suspension and full eligibility. This list was previously used sparingly but gained prominence in 2014 following several high-profile domestic violence cases that tarnished the league's image.
When a player is placed on the exempt list, they are not allowed to play in games or practice with their team. However, they continue to receive their salary and remain on the team's roster. Unlike a suspension, the player's absence does not impact the team's financial or roster planning. The league can place any player on the list, typically reserving it for those facing pending legal challenges.
Players must remain on the list until their legal situations are resolved, although the league does not set a fixed end date. The duration of a player's stay on the list varies, from a few days to several weeks, depending on the specifics of their case. Notable players who have been placed on the list include Michael Vick, Greg Hardy, and Adrian Peterson.
The NFL commissioner's exempt list provides a degree of flexibility to the league in handling player discipline while maintaining the player's status within the organization.
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