Patriots Insider Tom E. Curran isn't surprised by the news that Roger Goodell will be hearing Tom Brady's suspension.
"I don't think this is unexpected, which is why (in the union's) statement announcing [Brady] would appeal, there was an appeal to not have Roger Goodell or somebody involved with the league hear it," said Curran. "Roger Goodell generally is the first line of defense for these rulings, so he becomes that."
Roger Goodell had a rough 2014 season in the eyes of many. By hearing the appeal, is the commissioner trying to save the day or is he just doing his job?
"This is generally what happens," explained Curran. "The appeals go to Roger Goodell. Period. End of story in every instance. That's why there was an initial shot across the bow in Brady's statement of appeal that they didn't want someone with the league who was arguably not independent."