Goodell says tough times ahead in 2009
As much as NFL teams are feeling a financial squeeze already, Commissioner Roger Goodell fears the economic downturn really could hit the league in early 2009, when tickets for next season go on sale.
"There's no secret on sponsorship, advertising, licensing - those numbers are going to be impacted by the current climate. We're aware of that," Goodell said in an interview with The Associated Press on Friday.
"We're still, unfortunately, in the beginning stages of this. And most of our tickets are sold in the spring. And so '09 is going to be more of a barometer of how impactful the economic environment's going to be on the NFL."
Asked if individual clubs already were having problems, Goodell replied: "Sure. Absolutely. For (a variety of) factors: What's happening to sponsorship. What's happening to licensees. What's happening to our ticket holders, club seat holders, suite holders. This affects all of us."
Here and there around the league: The AFC North-leading Steelers (8-3) were hit with more injuries in their 27-10 win over the Bengals on Thursday night. Wide receiver Santonio Holmes has a concussion and defensive end Brett Keisel and running back Willie Parker injured knees.
- The NFL confirmed that suspended cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones can join the Cowboys on Monday and that he can play again Dec. 7 against Pittsburgh - but only if he stays on his best behavior.
- Michael Vick is back in Richmond, Virginia, to face state dogfighting charges. Hopewell Regional Jail Superintendent Darnley Hodge said Friday that the former NFL star is being held in protective custody to avoid any disruptions.
- Bengals wide receiver Chad Ocho Cinco was back at work Friday, a day after being sent home before the Pittsburgh game for disciplinary reasons.
- Niners offensive coordinator Mike Martz has been fined $20,000 by the NFL for his criticism of the officiating at the end of the 49ers' 29-24 loss in Arizona.
- Jets rookie quarterback Erik Ainge, who is on injured reserve and out for the season with a foot injury, has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league's policy on steroids and related substances.