NFL Commissioner Admits He Was “Wrong” But Will Not Resign

National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell at the press conference on Sept. 19, 2014.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says he is “sorry” at press conference on Sept. 19, 2014.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says he is “will not resign” at press conference on Sept. 19, 2014.

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 19, 2014: National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell on Friday afternoon admitted he was wrong in the handling of the Baltimore Ravens’ Ray Rice domestic abuse matter but said he will not resign and believes he has the full support of the NFL owners.

“I got it wrong in the handling the Ray Rice matter, and I’m sorry for that,” Goodell said early in his news conference in New York. “I got it wrong on a number of levels.”

But he pledged going forth to “get it right,” announcing that the body will “strongly – strongly – condemn and will punish behavior that is totally unacceptable.”

“Domestic violence, including child abuse, sexual assault, irresponsible ownership or handling of firearms, the illegal use of alcohol or drugs – these activities must be condemned and stopped, through education and discipline,” he said. “Our standards, and the consequences of falling short, must be clear, consistent, and current. They must be implemented through procedures that are fair and transparent.”

Goodell also disclosed that he has asked former FBI Director Robert Mueller to conduct an independent investigation to answer the questions raised about the NFL’s process in reviewing Rice’s conduct.

“I promise you that any shortcomings he finds in how we dealt with the situation will lead to swift action. The same mistakes can never be repeated,” said Goodell. “We will get our house in order first. … My goal is to complete this work by the Super Bowl.”

Several players with Caribbean and Latin heritage play in the NFL.

Meanwhile, Benjy, a regular from the “Howard Stern Show” interrupted the presser and started yelling and screaming. When he was dragged away by security he yelled: “DON’T PUT ME IN THE ELEVATOR,” a clear reference to the now famous elevator abuse video of Rice and his then fiancee.