Judge prods sides towards settlement

Share

It’s been pointed out frequently in the past few months that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is not an attorney. Why is that a big deal? Because a non-lawyer might make proclamations that, in a legal light, aren’t very bright.

Over the weekend, Goodell indicated to the Canton Repository that “he has no plans to reduce the suspension handed down to Tom Brady,” in the words of the reporter to whom Goodell spoke exclusively.

The problem with that stance is that it shows no willingness to negotiate toward a settlement. Judge Richard Berman, who will be deciding whether to uphold or vacate the suspension, told both sides to work on a settlement prior to the first of two conferences with the judge in New York.

On Tuesday, Berman had a message for both sides in advance of Wednesday morning’s meeting with him.

“In anticipation of tomorrow’s conference, counsel and the parties are requested to engage in further good faith settlement efforts today,” Berman wrote. “I will meet briefly with counsel and the parties tomorrow at 10:30 (in the robing room) for an update on your discussions.”

In other words, if you haven’t made any progress, you best make some today. And I want to hear where you are at tomorrow morning. Don’t disappoint me, fellas.

Whether this is standard operating procedure from Berman or a specific prod applied to a side that feels arrogantly untouchable, we can’t know.

But a reduction is inherent in any settlement request made by the judge. We’ll see how far the Brady camp goes toward accepting one.

Our friend Mike Florio has more insight about how exactly Wednesday will play out. He may or may not invoke the word "dumbass."

Contact Us