NFL owners to address player safety

The Steelers have built a reputation, if not an identity, on hard-hitting, punishing defense.

That seemingly would put the organization at odds with the NFL's push to expand protection for offensive players. But Kevin Colbert, the Steelers' director of football operations, Sunday endorsed the player safety initiative that has become one of commissioner Roger Goodell's priorities.

Owners will vote Tuesday on whether to add more protection for players deemed to be defenseless, one of three major rule changes that could be enacted this week.

"All sports now are aware of the severity of head and neck injuries," Colbert said after arriving at the NFL owners meetings with a contingent that included Steelers president Art Rooney II and coach Mike Tomlin. "We have to make sure we do everything we can to protect players without taking away from the game. Somewhere there's a compromise that will make the game safer but also keep it competitive and entertaining."...............

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