NFL: Wells Report Finds Patriots Employees Probably Deflated Balls
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On Wednesday the NFL released the Wells Report, a 243 page report on the findings regarding the investigation into the alleged deflated footballs used by the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.
The NFL began the investigation after New England won the AFC Championship, when the Indianapolis Colts complained that several footballs were under inflated.
According to the Wells report, "We do not believe there was any wrongdoing or knowledge of wrongdoing by Patriots ownership, Belichick or other Pats coach."
But the NFL finds it probable that the Patriots deliberately deflated balls, and that quarterback Tom Brady was 'generally aware' of the rules violation.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft blasted the report.
"Throughout the process of this nearly four-month investigation, we have cooperated and patiently awaited its outcome. To say we are disappointed in its findings, which do not include any incontrovertible or hard evidence of deliberate deflation of footballs at the AFC Championship game, would be a gross understatement."
"While I respect the independent process of the investigation, the time, effort and resources expended to reach this conclusion are incomprehensible to me. Knowing that there is no real recourse available, fighting the league and extending this debate would prove to be futile. We understand and greatly respect the responsibility of being one of 32 in this league and, on that basis, we will accept the findings of the report and take the appropriate actions based on those findings as well as any discipline levied by the league."
More than 65 people were interviewed as part of investigation.
Sources say the NFL considering discipline for Tom Brady, Patriots locker attendant Jim McNally and equipment asst John Jastremski.
*This is a developing story. Listen to 105.3 The Fan for the latest information.
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