In a recent policy change, the NFL decided it was best to tighten up restrictions on domestic violence committed by its players. Once will draw a punishment (long suspension), twice will get you the boot from the NFL forever.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will issue varying penalties based on severity of first offence, such as presence of a weapon or type of abuse. NFL players and domestic abuse have been in the national spotlight; Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice allegedly hit the woman who is now his wife, which he received a two-game suspension for.
For more on this story, and to see statements from the commissioner, check out NESN’s coverage.