The Verdict

[phil112]

Seems like Brady acquitted himself well. His counsel is satisfied with their presentation.
What next? How long for goodell to exonerate Tom?
I believe that to be the only option for goodell. I believe Tom will only accept being cleared of all cheating charges. Should goodell dig in his heels I look for Tom and the NFLPA to go to federal court.
I am confident goodell realizes that court is the only alternative to not admitting Brady is innocent, and he also has to realize that the nfl will lose in an impartial setting. Wait and see.

 

[12ScotlandPats12]

I think you are spot on, but if he does clear Tom then what of the fine the team got?? Toms counsel would have had to refute everything in the Wells report, to prove that Tom had no knowledge of ball tampering. If Tom's legal team has done this well and his suspension is dropped then does it not make sense that the fine is also dropped? As far as i can see its the only option but for one thing.... Goodell...... Would he ever admit to being wrong?

 

[tom.kordis]

I'm not at all sure about Tom winning in court. I'm no lawyer, but I think that it depends on the basis of the lawsuit.

Can the basis be that the Exponent report is flawed?
Or the Goodell has over-reached his authority?

Brady's best tactic on the facts will be to delay the hearing until after some cold weather, rainy games have been played. Then, armed with the data that shows that all balls deflate to the same extent as the Pats' balls did, he can prove that he is factually innocent.

But, if the basis of the suit is that Ooodell abused his authority in some way, then I think that the case is much harder.

It'd be best to get a lawyer's opinion on this.