Richardson Supports NFL’s Tougher Discipline

Vikings fullback Tony Richardson was one of six NFL players named to an advisory council to the new commissioner, and he supports the league’s tougher stance on discipline.

Vikings fullback Tony Richardson was named to a six-member council of veteran NFL players who will advise commissioner Roger Goodell on a variety of matters. This includes player conduct.

Goodell showed he would not be afraid to get tough in this area when he suspended Tennessee cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones for the 2007 season and Cincinnati receiver Chris Henry for eight games.

Richardson believes these types of suspensions are the best way to send a message.

“The money players are receiving makes it hard for fines to work,” Richardson told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. “You take the money away from some of them and they say, ‘Go ahead. I’ll be fine.’ So the biggest thing you can do is take away his stage. Take away his chance to go out on Sunday afternoon or Monday night. Take away his ability to stand out. That’s where it really sets into him.

“Otherwise, from a money standpoint, you get guys who’ll say, ‘You know what? I never had money growing up and if you take it now, I’ll be OK like I was before.’”

Richardson, whose 2006 season ended early because of a broken arm, is among the most respected and articulate players in the Vikings locker room. His words and opinions should carry weight with teammates and around the league.

Also on the council are free agent cornerback Troy Vincent, who is president of the players union; Jacksonville safety Donovin Darius; Indianapolis center Jeff Saturday; Philadelphia linebacker Takeo Spikes; and Washington wide receiver James Thrash.

NOTES

The Vikings had about 25 draft-eligible players visit Winter Park on Wednesday for a mass interview and dinner. This was done instead of bringing players to Minnesota in small groups. The Vikings did not provide a list of those who visited but Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams was known to be among them. Pittsburgh cornerback Darrelle Revis also was in town.

Free safety Darren Sharper will work as an analyst on at least one NFL Europe game for the NFL Network this spring. Sharper and Richardson both could end up in broadcasting when their playing days have been completed.

QUOTE TO NOTE: “It’s great. It’s better than I expected. The team accepted me and I couldn’t ask for a better position to be put in.” — New Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe on how his new teammates have accepted him.