The seemingly never-ending drama surrounding deflated footballs could be over soon. Then again, maybe not. Such is life with Deflategate.
ESPN.com reported Monday that the NFL and the NFL Players Association are in talks over a possible settlement regarding New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady’s four-game Deflategate suspension. The four-time Super Bowl winner is awaiting a ruling from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Brady’s appeal of the ban.
FOXSports.com first reported Monday that the sides were talking and indicated an “open line of communication.”
Sources confirmed to ESPN that the sides are engaged in talks after an initial attempt by the union to reach a settlement reportedly was ignored by the league. However, despite the perceived progress in getting talks started, sources told ESPN it’s unlikely the sides will reach a settlement.
All along, reports have indicated that Brady maintains his innocence. Through reports, Brady and his camp have insisted he did nothing wrong. However, Brady reportedly would be willing to take a fine — for failing to comply with with the investigation — but not a suspension.
Brady appealed the four-game suspension on June 23, which means Goodell’s deliberation already has taken a month. The ESPN report states that part of the reason it’s taking so long is Goodell and the NFL want to ensure the decision-making process is thorough in case Brady and the NFLPA take the case to court.
Thumbnail photo via John Rieger/USA TODAY Sports Images
