Commissioner Roger Goodell opened the NFL Annual Meeting in Orlando on Monday with a presentation to team owners, general managers, coaches and staff. The hour-long session focused on the league's challenges and priorities.
The presentation included information from several NFL and team executives plus Pro Football Hall of Famers Anthony Muñoz and Aeneas Williams and former Pro Bowl player Patrick Kerney, now the NFL's vice president of player engagement.
Commissioner Goodell saluted all teams on a memorable 2013 season and specifically recognized the work of coaches.
"The game has never been better and it's a tribute to all of you, but it's really important for us to salute the coaches," said Goodell. "The coaches are the ones that really work to make this game great. We've changed the rules. We've removed techniques that we thought were dangerous. We've implemented new work rules and you, your staffs and your players have adjusted and we're all better for it. Thank you, coaches, for all that you do."
Goodell concluded by emphasizing the league's values and also the theme of respect.
"With more success, comes more responsibility for all of us to step up and lead," Goodell noted. "That means staying true to the values that have sustained our success over the years -- integrity, quality, tradition, teamwork, diversity, innovation.
"Let me leave you with one thought to guide us through the future. Respect; respect for our game and those that came before us. Respect for each other – teams, opponents and game officials. Respect for our fans, our lifeblood. Respect in our workplaces for the diversity that makes us stronger. Respect for our communities and the important role we play in those communities. It's about the significance of being part of this, the shield. Let's embrace the opportunity to make a difference. We're expected to do that – by our fans, our business partners and others. We can and we will. Let's go to work."
Topics presented by NFL and club executives included former players, quality of the game, engaging fans at stadiums and through technology, and connecting with new fans.
-- NFL Communications
