Possible suspension reduction for Vilma @ The Fan Hub

August 6th, 2012 9:07 AM

New Orleans Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma during the game against the Green Bay Packers. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Jonathan Vilma is suspended for the entire 2012 season after evidence surfaced that he was highly involved in one of the biggest scandals the NFL has ever seen. But this may no longer be the case. According to multiple sources, the linebacker is currently working out a settlement with the league that would reduce his suspension to only 8 games.

The offer comes after Vilma decided to separately sue both the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell for defamation of character. The league believes it has a strong case against Vilma, but multiple sources have reported there is concern the lawsuits might give the league a bad reputation.

There are many conflicting reports on the issue, but ESPN.com reported an offer to reduce the suspension was made but is conditional upon Vilma dropping his suits. Although the offer would not completely save his reputation — which Vilma is said to have strong feeling about — cutting the suspension in half seems the best-case scenario for the linebacker. It is important to note, however, that NFL.com reported has reported that no such offer was made.

Vilma’s attorney, Peter Ginsberg, claims he is looking forward to Thursday, when the Pro Bowler will request a temporary restraining order against his year-long suspension. If granted, he could participate in the Saints training camp and make full use of the team’s facilities.

Several members of the Saints organization have filed sworn affidavits vouching for Vilma’s character, denying there was ever a bounty program. If a settlement is reached, it will open the doors for other players involved in the scandal to reduce their punishments as well. Sources with knowledge of the situation have confirmed these players are already considering their own legal action against Goodell.

Although there is no clear evidence for either side, Friday’s meeting with Judge Ginger Berrigan could expedite the process and clear up rumors. The goals of both sides are pretty clear: Vilma wants to play football and preserve his family name. The league, on the other hand, wants to make an example of the scandal and show it has no tolerance for such an atrocity. In the meantime, the Saints have begun training camp and are hoping their star linebacker can return for any amount of time this season.

— Tim Moczula

Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma could have his season-long suspension cut in half — to eight games — if he agrees to drop the civil lawsuit pending in Louisiana court against commissioner Roger Goodell for defamation of character, ESPN reported.

Read the original post from si.com