The same day that New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave his first post-DeflateGate punishment interview at MMQB, the team and the league have reportedly begun discussing a resolution in lieu of a formal appeal and potential legal action. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the two sides are discussing the matter through "back-channel conversations" that could result in a reduction in Tom Brady's suspension and/or the penalties handed to the Patriots.
Patriots, NFL having ‘back-channel conversations’ to avoid DeflateGate appeal, per report
If successful, New England and the NFL could avoid a lengthy appeal and court process.
The news comes one day before the annual spring owners’ meetings are to begin in San Francisco. Kraft and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell are expected to attend, though how much direct communication will take place between the parties is unknown. Prior to DeflateGate, Kraft had been one of Goodell’s most vocal supporters among the owners, but that relationship appears to have deteriorated since.
As it stands, Brady will miss the first four games of the season without pay. The Patriots were docked a first- and fourth-round draft pick and fined $1 million, the harshest punishment in league history.
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