Speaking Wednesday at the University of North Carolina, Goodell said the game's overall health and survival depends upon adapting to rules and equipment that reduce injuries.

"There is a national conversation taking place about football," Goodell said, according to ProFootballTalk.com. "We welcome it ... looking at changes to the game not as something to be feared but as something we need to do as if the future of the game relies on it. Because it does. The risk of injury in football is well known, but throughout history, football has evolved and become safer and better."

--Quarterback Vince Young told NFL Network that he recently wrote to Jeff Fisher, his former head coach, and apologized for the manner in which he conducted himself during their joint time with the Tennessee Titans. Fisher is now head coach of the St. Louis Rams, while Young is looking for work after being cut by the Bills before the start of last season.

Young, 29, never got another job in 2012. He will work out for scouts March 26 during the pro day at the University of Texas, his alma mater.