NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has vowed to protect the safety of his players by issuing hefty penalties for hits outside the rules, according to Associated Press. "From this point forward, you should be clear on the following point: Any conduct that unnecessarily risks the safety of other players has no role in the game of football and will be disciplined at increased levels, including on a first offense," Goodell wrote in a memo obtained Thursday by The Associated Press. "Playing by the rules shows respect for your fellow players. No one wants to see unnecessary injuries."