NFL Denies Saints “Bounty” Appeals

Added on Apr 09, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

In a not at all surprising decision, the NFL has denied the appeals filed by the Saints organization, general manager Mickey Loomis and coaches Sean Payton and Joe Vitt, meaning their involvement in the “Bounty” program will result in a combination of fines and suspensions as spelled out in Commissioner Roger Goodell’s original punishment. Full cooperation from the team could result in a reduction in the monetary penalties, but the suspensions will remain intact,

Loomis’s eight-game hit and Vitt’s six-game will begin once the preseason concludes. Payton’s one-year ban is set to kick in on April 16th. The appeal process was a mere formality, although it did allow more time for Loomis and Payton to concoct a plan for the upcoming season. At this point, who will coach the team in 2012 is unknown. Bill Parcells was approached two weeks ago, but no agreement was reached.

Maligned defensive coordinator and architect of the bounty system, Gregg Williams, elected to not appeal his indefinite suspension. He is currently still a member of the Rams coaching staff, although it’s not clear when or if Jeff Fisher will hand him his walking papers.

With more and more inflammatory reports and audio clips surfacing, it’s possible Williams could be booted from the league permanently. However, Goodell has a track record of awarding the ostracized second chances, so as long as Williams continues to be contrite and not shy away from public’s anger, he could be permitted to return in 2013. The real question is how many teams will be willing to take on his tarnished reputation.

There is also the issue of punishing Saints players both past and present. Up to 27 players have allegedly been implicated in accepting cash for “knockouts” and “cart-offs.” Most notable being current starting middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma. The guilty parties could face fines, suspensions or both depending on their roles in the program.

Source: NFL.com