NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said it's “ridiculous” to reward untested rookies with lucrative contracts, and wants the issue addressed in contract talks.

“There's something wrong about the system,” Goodell said. “The money should go to people who perform.”

Goodell referred to Michigan tackle Jake Long's five-year, $57.75 million contract – with $30 million guaranteed. Long was the first overall draft pick by the Miami Dolphins in April.

“He doesn't have to play a down in the NFL and he already has his money,” Goodell said during a question-and-answer period at the end of a weeklong sports symposium at the Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, N.Y.

“Now, with the economics where they are, the consequences if you don't evaluate that player, you can lose a significant amount of money.

“And that money is not going to players that are performing. It's going to a player that never makes it in the NFL. And I think that's ridiculous.” Goodell said he favors lowering salaries offered to rookies, but allowing a provision for those players to renegotiate their deals after proving themselves on the field.

His statement was greeted by a long round of applause from the estimated crowd of 2,000 inside the amphitheater.

Speaking to reporters before his appearance, Goodell said he plans to open negotiations with the players union on a revamped labor deal this fall. He's listened to concerns from all 32 owners in meetings over the past month.

“We just finished a series of one-on-one meetings with all 32 teams, where I have a better understanding and people have a better understanding of the economics each team is facing,” Goodell said. “I think we can identify what it is we need in a negotiation to continue to make the agreement work for the NFL and for the players.”

Davenport cut

Running back Najeh Davenport was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers after the team couldn't work out a trade for Willie Parker's former backup.

Also released were safety Mike Lorello, long snapper Jared Retkofsky and offensive lineman Doug Legursky.

Davenport rushed for a career-high 499 yards and averaged 4.7 yards per carry last season, but was ineffective as a starter in the Steelers' final two games after Parker broke a leg Dec. 20.

In April, Davenport was acquitted of a misdemeanor domestic violence charge in Cleveland Municipal Court.

Glenn to return?

Wide receiver Terry Glenn is speaking with Cowboys officials again in the hopes of returning.

Glenn has refused to sign an injury waiver that would give him $500,000 if he re-injures his right knee. He has missed all mandatory and voluntary on-field practices this offseason. The Cowboys told him he could not practice with the team without the waiver.

Glenn played in one regular-season game last season because of two knee surgeries. Doctors told Glenn he needs microfracture surgery, but the receiver said an MRI taken a few weeks ago revealed his knee is fine.