Brady's process seems a lot more straight forward with his appeal through the NFLPA up first, then deciding any legal action after that. I think the more interesting thing will be how the Pats handle this situation. With no real appeal available unless Goodell approves one, I think it would take pressure from other owners to force an independent arbitration hearing.
If I am Robert Craft, I go to the owners meeting in San Francisco next week and make my intentions very clear. I would tell the other owners that I am demanding Roger Goodell appoint an independent arbitrator, not only to hear Tom Brady's appeal but also a separate appeal for the Patriots. If he chooses not to do so we will then file a Federal arbitration claim and antitrust lawsuit against the NFL, as well as defamation lawsuits against Roger Goodell, Troy Vincent and Ted Wells. I would also threaten to use my political influence to start a congressional investigation into the NFL's handling of this situation. And finally if Roger Goodell doesn't grant a fair and simple request such as an independent appeal, I will request a no confidence vote to try and have Goodell removed because he is unfit for office.
This can all be avoided though, all we are asking for is a fair, independent hearing to appeal the charges and punishment leveled against us. The other owners have no obligation to do anything, but if they want to avoid this situation, they should make Roger Goodell very aware of their view.
Now the chances of winning any of these legal actions is probably slim, but the threat of them is huge and potentially very harmful to the league. None of the other owners would want any of these, let alone the threat of all of them. The request of an independent appeal is a very fair and simple one, so the threat of Kraft going the nuclear route could be enough for the other owners to pressure Goodell into granting it.
Not bloody likely.
