Tom Brady just won a huge victory over the NFL in court. Is Greg Hardy next?
U.S. District Court Judge Richard Berman ruled Thursday to nullify the New England Patriots quarterback’s four-game suspension for his alleged role in Deflategate. Now, it appears Hardy will discuss with the NFL Players Association whether to appeal his own four-game suspension, a source told ESPN’s Ed Werder.
Of course, Hardy’s situation is a bit different than Brady’s. The NFL originally suspended the Dallas Cowboys defensive end 10 games for conduct detrimental to the league after he was charged with domestic violence in an incident with his ex-girlfriend. Hardy appealed that ruling and had his punishment greatly reduced by arbitrator Harold Henderson, who ruled to cut the suspension down to four games.
It seems far-fetched that Hardy would get his suspension reduced yet again, but Berman’s ruling in Brady’s case has opened the door for questioning the NFL’s recent punishments. Among the sentiments expressed in Berman’s decision was the distinction that the collective bargaining agreement gives NFL commissioner disciplinary power but doesn’t allow him to act unfairly.
Hardy would have to act quickly if he hopes to get a ruling in time, as the Cowboys open their season Sept. 13 against the New York Giants. As it currently stands, Hardy would be eligible to return in Week 5 against the Patriots.
Thumbnail photo via Matthew Emmons/USA TODAY Sports Images
