At first I thought to myself "why didn't he just fully reinstate him", but after reading into the reasoning and logic behind it, I too believe it is clever. It still provides the NFL with media coverage throughout the off season, give extra attention to the Cowboys, and provides Pacman with a chance to redeem himself, turning him into a positive influencial story of redemption, and in doing all this, it makes Goodell look like a genius, because if Pacman is reinstated, Goodell receives praise for punishing him and reforming him (setting him as the example), and if Pacman flubs up, Goodell is a genius for not fully reinstating him, ultimately falling back on "I knew something wasn't right about that kid" type mentality.
Either way, I am glad Pacman is able to be productive thus far. It is better than sitting at home doing nothing while the team is working hard for the 2008 season.