New Orleans Saints defensive end Will Smith released a statement on Thursday expressing his frustration with the unresolved situation surrounding his four-game suspension stemming from the Saints "Bounty-,Gate" scandal.
Saints’ Will Smith Releases Statement On His ‘In Limbo’ Suspension Status
Smith, in concordance with former teammates Scott Fujita, Anthony Hargrove and Jonathan Vilma, had a joint motion filed on their behalf by the NFL Players Association to have a temporary federal restraining order block the suspensions. The NFLPA argues that the individuals could face irreparable harm if they are forced to miss games while their case continues against the league.
U.S. District Judge Ginger Berrigan is handling the case and has already stated that she found the league’s handling of the bounty scandal unfair. However, she hasn’t decided if the courts have jurisdiction over the matter.
This has left Smith disappointed with the speed of the process:
As we get closer to kickoff on Sunday, I am disappointed my playing status remains in limbo. I respect Judge Berrigan's order and my legal team has been diligent in responding. [...] Irreparable harm has already been levied on me and the players. We have been unfairly labeled and punished by this process. [...] It is my sincere hope to have this matter resolved as quickly as possible so I may return to my job, teammates and fans, as we take the field against the Redskins.
To read the entire statement, click here.
For more Saints coverage, check out Canal Street Chronicles. Follow the latest developments in the bounty case in this StoryStream.
See More:
More in: Saints bounty suspensions vacated
