NFL NOTEBOOK: NFL passes two big rules changes; Bears part ways with veteran star LB Urlacher

Although commissioner Roger Goodell declared Wednesday at the end of the NFL Annual Meeting that the league is a safer place, there was more controversy than peace over the passing of a key rule regarding backs leading with the crown of their helmet.

And even while approving another rule change, the removal of the infamous Tuck Rule, the vote itself reflected ongoing acrimony caused by the previous use of what some believe was an illogical and inexplicable call.

Still, league officials were agreeable enough to pass all six of the rules alterations proposed by the competition committee during the gathering in Phoenix.

Goodell said that the league is looking into possible changes to the Rooney Rule, which is supposed to encourage the hiring of minorities, and to the Pro Bowl. He also reported that he is continuing to negotiate with Major League Baseball to solve a scheduling conflict in Baltimore on the NFL