(Reuters) - Back in December, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft crafted the strongest of endorsements for NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after his mishandling of punishment in players' domestic abuse cases undermined his authority.
Goodell is "the one person that understands what's important, long-term interests of the game," Kraft said.
"Owners can have specific interests, players can - that's short-term. But the commissioner is always looking for the long-term best interests of the game."
This week, that was put to the test.
Goodell endorsed the National Football League's sanctions against the Patriots on Monday for using under-inflated balls in what is known as the "Deflategate" scandal.