When the elevator footage of former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice was released this week, where Rice is seen striking his then-fiancee, public reaction was clear and consistent.

A torrent of criticism, shock and sheer fury was unleashed upon Rice, the Ravens and the NFL, which resulted in the quick termination of Rice's contract and a finger-pointing game of "who knew what when."

What few could understand, however, was the mindset of Janay Rice, Ray Rice's now-wife and victim in the video.

Why did she stay? What are the choices one faces in abusive relationships - with added public scrutiny?

Dewan Williams, wife of former NFL player Wally Williams, had a frank and challenging conversation with Michaela Pereira on "New Day" Wednesday about the Rice fallout, and the sometimes subjugated roles of NFL wives.

Williams also detailed her own experience with domestic abuse.

"When you reach out, you're left on an island by yourself," she said. "I was told by coaches, in our particular situation, I was told not to talk to the media. Not to talk to anyone, not to get an attorney."

Williams believes aspects of football culture could potentially foster abusive home lives.

"You have these men that are playing a very violent sport, and it's okay to use aggression and to enforce their will on someone else in the football field," she said.

Yet despite Rice's admitted guilt, and the incriminating nature of the footage, Williams maintained that Rice is merely being used as an example in the wake of a public backlash.

She said she doesn't think Rice should be banned from the league and hopes that he can one day return to the NFL.

"I feel that he's being punished because the lights have been turned on," she said.

"He’s being made to pay for things that have been ongoing."

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