NFL sets new punishment guidelines for players' domestic abuse

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ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 16: Ray Rice #27 of the Baltimore Ravens sits on the bench against the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of their preseason game at AT&T Stadium on August 16, 2014 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) — Ray Rice #27 of the Baltimore Ravens sits on the bench against the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of their preseason game at AT&T Stadium on August 16, 2014 in Arlington, Texas. Rice was suspended two games after video surfaced of him knocking his then-fiancee unconscious in an elevator.

After outrage from fans and domestic violence groups that the punishment does not fit the crime for players' domestic abuse incidents, the NFL released new guidelines Thursday.

Back in July, the NFL suspended Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice for knocking out his then fiancee in an elevator.

Surveillance video revealed Rice dragging her seemingly unconscious body out of the elevator.

Unreleased video showed him delivering the blow.

The punishment from the NFL: two games--less than it would have been for DUI, substance abuse or even using steroids.

While the league defended the length of the suspension, the response from fans and domestic violence abuse groups was outrage.

Thursday, a week before the start of the season, ESPN obtained a letter written by commissioner Roger Goodell sent to all NFL owners outlining new guidelines covering domestic violence that could result in a lifetime ban from the league.

Jane McManus from ESPN.com shares more.