"I talked on personal conduct. I didn't speak about anyone in particular in that case," Goodell said. "But I did talk about what I call protecting the shield. My job is to protect the integrity of the NFL and to make sure the game is as safe as possible."
Goodell said the personal conduct policy is "designed to protect those players and their reputations, because I think we have a bunch of great guys in the league."
Goodell told the rookies they need to recognize that they're on a big stage and that a lot of people will be focusing on them.
"I told them all about the next few days obviously is designed to help them not only transition into the NFL but also beyond the NFL and it starts with being good men and making sure that you can have as long a career as possible," Goodell said. "Then I mentioned how life changes quickly. One of the rookies I spoke to today, Chad Jones, is in the hospital actually fighting for his life. It sounds like he's doing well, but he's got a long road back.
"It's about preparing yourself for life. Football's not the only thing and it's not going to last forever. I think they understood that message, hopefully."
Asked about labor talks, Goodell said there are "really no developments."
NFL and union officials met earlier this month for their first negotiating session since February.
"There will be an agreement at some point," Goodell said. "Everyone would like it sooner rather than later."
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