*NOT A DEFENSE OF RAY RICE*
Having said that, I think Ray Rice is just the next example of the type of player that the NFL covets. From the time these boys show a modicum of talent, they are groomed for the next level. PeeWee to Middle School to High School to College and then the Pros. They are given every opportunity to have their transgressions forgiven or downplayed because they can run/pass/catch/tackle at a high level.
The billionaires who fund this sport, and profit mightily, want the meanest, toughest, nastiest, most amped up men they can get to don their colors and make them money. They portray their players as modern day gladiators. Mythic names who become heroes of the franchise and gain eternal fame for their on field exploits.
And the public eats it up. Pro football is the most popular sport in the United States. The fans of these teams are so invested in the performance of "their" team, that a win or a loss can make or break their entire week in just under three hours. Just check the various highlight packages on any given Sunday and invariably, there are big hits included. And while you will admit that the skill shown on a catch or run is admirable and enjoyable to watch, nothing gets your blood fired up as much as a big hit.
All of the above is just leading up to this, Ray Rice is just a product of the system. He could be, and is, any number of men who play football every Sunday. And we are all complicit in making these men what they become.