Paul Tagliabue Players Quotations

I said to the players that their accomplishment is extraordinary in winning three of four Super Bowls. But they know as well as anybody that a bounce of the ball here or a missed tackle there or a tackle that was made by grabbing a guy's jersey, those are the small margins of victory.

Reggie White was a gentle warrior who will be remembered as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history. Equally as impressive as his achievements on the field was the positive impact he made off the field and the way he served as a positive influence on so many young people. We are deeply saddened by his loss and extend our deepest sympathy to Reggie's wife Sara and his entire family.

I think one thing is clear already, based on what I have been presented with, that no one within the Panthers organization was in any way, shape or form involved with any of these players who were playing outside the lines.

We had good support from the Players Association recognizing that it develops players, ... I think NFL Europe is an important piece of our international development. They had a very successful year this year and last year.

We once again thank the most passionate fans in sports for their tremendous support this year and every year. Our clubs and players are very appreciative of the large and enthusiastic crowds at NFL games.

We appreciate the tremendous response of our fans and everything that our teams and players are doing to support the relief effort, ... We are going to stay at it because all of America is going to have to stay at it.

I've been getting periodic updates from our counsel. I think very shortly we'll have a final report from our counsel and investigative team. Hopefully, we can learn some lessons together with the (NFL) Players Association from the report. I think one thing is clear already, based on what I have been presented with: No one within the Panthers' organization was in any way, shape or form involved with any of these players who were playing outside the lines.

Hopefully, I'll have the report by the beginning of the season, and then we can discuss it with the (NFL) Players' Association to see whether there are changes that we can make that would perhaps increase the penalties for players who might engage with others in a course of conduct that was designed to circumvent the (drugs-testing) program.

The current system is much more competitive in the front office. It's always been easy to get talent and keep talent through the draft. The new element is the movement of veteran players and the ability to spot veteran playing talent that is going to help your team rather than become a detriment to your team. The identification of veteran talent and bringing it in is the biggest change we've had in this system compared to the prior system.

They are beginning to understand the game is growing in interest. There will be players in Germany at very high levels. Then the sport will start rolling along. It will enrich what we do over here.