We take a break from our ongoing coverage of a developing story about an aging quarterback to return to our coverage of a developing story about an aging quarterback.
Per multiple reports, the Tom Brady appeal hearing is over, after 10 hours of testimony.
Next comes the decision from Commissioner Roger Goodell, who appointed himself as the hearing officer. Article 46 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement requires that a ruling be made “as soon as practicable.” In the case of Cowboys defensive end Greg Hardy, whose hearing last month lasted seven hours, “as soon as practicable” has meant “26 days and counting.”
The amount of time Goodell takes to issue a decision will influence the amount of time Brady and the NFL Players Association have to attack any suspension in court. Ultimately, an effort could be made to delay the implementation of the suspension until the legal challenge ends, allowing Brady to play until the courts have issued a final decision.
Either way, the conclusion of the hearing will hardly be the conclusion of the controversy.