NFL Wins Appeal Against Adrian Peterson, Further Expanding Roger Goodell's Power
By Matt Dolloff, CBS Boston
BOSTON (CBS) -- Just when you thought NFL commissioner Roger Goodell couldn't get more powerful, his grip on the NFL's version of the Iron Throne just got even tighter.
As first reported on Twitter by legal analyst Daniel Wallach, the NFL has won its appeal against Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, who was suspended indefinitely early in the 2014 season before having the suspension overturned on appeal in February of 2015. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Peterson's suspension was "improperly vacated" and that Goodell did not overstep his authority as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
"We conclude that the parties bargained to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator, and the arbitrator acted within his authority, so we reverse the district court's judgment vacating the arbitration decision," reads a quick summary of the court's decision.
Wallach described NFL attorney Paul Clement as "the Teflon lawyer for the ages," as he has yet to lose a major case while representing the league.
Another stunning victory for Paul Clement, who is apparently the Teflon lawyer for the ages, particularly when he reps the NFL. Undefeated.
— Daniel Wallach (@WALLACHLEGAL) August 4, 2016
If you see Paul Clement's name on the papers, run! Or better yet, settle. Man can't lose. NFLPA must be praying he gets appointed to SCOTUS.
— Daniel Wallach (@WALLACHLEGAL) August 4, 2016
"The power of the NFL commissioner strengthens as 8th Circuit determines 'fundamental fairness' is subordinate to collective bargaining," tweeted legal expert Warren K. Zola on the decision. So not only does Goodell have virtually unlimited power in his disciplinary actions, he doesn't even need to be fair about it anymore. With anything.
The ruling hurt the NFLPA in their fight to bring Tom Brady's case to the Supreme Court, due to the circuits collectively ruling in favor of the NFL with no split decision, but did little to affect Peterson's status beyond money. The worst part, of course, is the ominous precedent now set with Goodell's iron fist becoming more powerful than ever.
Goodell's golden chip in the next CBA negotiations just became a trump card. The commissioner can basically strut around punishing anyone for anything, and cannot be questioned. "The NFL has become WWE" never sounded so true until now. The surreal has become reality.
Goodell may already be Vince McMahon, but let's just hope he doesn't turn into the NFL version of the Mad King.
Matt Dolloff is a writer for CBSBostonSports.com. His opinions do not necessarily reflect that of CBS or 98.5 The Sports Hub. Have a news tip or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff and email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.