Goodell could rule on Tom Brady appeal as early as next week

A ruling on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's appeal of a four-game suspension could come down as early as next week.

Goodell expects to make a decision very soon and indicated that the process could be wrapped up by next week, according to Julia Boorstin of CNBC.

Brady's 10-hour hearing took place on June 23, about a month after Greg Hardy's appeal, which is still unresolved. Brady's case has less legal ramifications, which could explain the speed at which it's being processed.

Goodell could uphold, reduce, or dismiss the four-game suspension that was handed down to Brady in May after it was determined that he was "at least generally aware of inappropriate activities" in the deflation of game balls for January's AFC Championship Game.