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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has sent a memo to players and coaches on every team stressing that safety issues are important to the league and on-field conduct that risks injuries will result in severe penalties.

The memo, dated Wednesday, was sent to all teams with instructions that it should be distributed to all players and coaches.

Goodell's memo reads in full:

"Player safety on the field is important to all of us in the NFL. Football is a tough game and we need to do everything possible to protect all players--offense, defense, and special teams--from unnecessary injury caused by illegal and dangerous hits.

"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.

"Playing by the rules shows respect for your fellow players. No one wants to see unnecessary injuries. Let's have a safe and exciting 2008 season."

The memo comes on the heels of the league issuing a one-game suspension Tuesday to Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie cornerback Elbert Mack for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan during an interception return in a game last Sunday.

Mack reportedly is appealing the penalty.

Goodell Memo Stresses On-Field Safety....