New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s appeal of his four-game Deflategate suspension will be heard by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
That isn’t likely to change.
The NFLPA wanted an independent arbitrator to handle the appeal, but Goodell, who has the final say on the matter, chose himself. He has that right under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.
ESPN’s Ed Werder reported Friday, citing a source, that it’s “very unlikely” Goodell recuses himself from the appeal.
Goodell hasn’t done anything to boost his public approval rating by deciding to hear Brady’s appeal himself. What are the chances he’s going to overturn or reduce a suspension that was determined by one of his own employees?
If Goodell refuses to recuse himself, the players’ union will have to explore other ways to find a neutral arbitrator.
Thumbnail photo via Adam Hunger/USA TODAY Sports Images
