StarCaps Case Moving Toward Conclusion

Many assumed that the StarCaps litigation essentially ended when a federal judge in Minnesota blocked the implementation of four-game suspensions against two key members of the Vikings and three members of the Saints. It didn’t. The court order merely prevented the league from suspending the players until the case is resolved. So, it’s possible that the players ultimately will lose, and thus be required to serve the suspensions. Trial is still set for June 15. More importantly, a league source has reminded us that a so-called “motion for summary judgment” will be heard on Thursday. Put simply, a motion for summary judgment entails an argument that the key facts aren’t in dispute, and that the judge can decide the winner and the loser merely by applying the law to the undisputed circumstances. Though it previously has been reported that the players will be pursuing this approach, it’s likely that each side has filed such a motion. On the surface, it seems to be the perfect case for a decision without a judge or a jury having to resolve any he-said/she-said issues. The pending suspensions apply to Vikings defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams, Saints defensive ends Charles Grant and Will Smith, and free-agent running back Deuce McAllister. Lions defensive tackle Grady Jackson’s internal appeal of his four-game also likely will be affected by the ruling in the StarCaps case.