But he did say the league will not alter its blackout policy.

Five Lions games were not broadcast on local television last season because tickets to those games did not sell out. They were the first blacked out Lions games since the team moved to Ford Field in 2002.

Goodell stopped in Detroit on his way to Canton, Ohio, for Saturday night's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Coach Jim Schwartz spoke with Goodell before the team's first open practice, which attracted more than 15,000 fans. Schwartz said he hopes the fans' support made an impression on Goodell.