It is great to be king. But even Roger Goodell is not exempt from having a worst week ever as NFL commissioner.

Ten days ago, Goodell arguably was the most secure, powerful and envied of sports bosses in the United States. As quickly as you can say, “There’s a video on the internet,” he turned into a universally doubted, red-faced, media pin cushion. He may survive the crisis and keep his job, but not without permanent scars.

With the start of the season taking centre stage last weekend, it seemed the “commish” was all but recovered from the criticism of his handling of Baltimore running back Ray Rice’s assault case – a paltry two-game suspension.

But then the video surfaced of Rice knocking out his soon-to-be wife with a vicious punch in a hotel lift. Reports suggested Goodell and the NFL had had a copy (he said not) before he meted out Rice’s punishment. So the bashing was on.

Rice was immediately cut by his team and suspended by the league. Sorry, boys. Way too little, way too late.

Next, Goodell ordered an investigation of the mess (by cronies, no less), but the media howling continued to dominate above and beyond the tackles and touchdowns.

By week’s end, it appeared Goodell’s first monstrous, public disgrace would not move the NFL’s 32 owners to shake him off his suddenly wobbly throne.

But if Goodell’s credibility takes one more crooked turn, they should not wait to shove.

sports@thenational.ae