Report: NFL engaging NFLPA in settlement talks for Brady appeal

At long last, the "Deflategate" saga may finally come to an end.

The NFL has engaged the players association in talks regarding a potential settlement in the appeal process for Tom Brady's four-game suspension, according to Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports, exploring the possibility of reaching a solution acceptable to both sides.

Garafolo thinks a settlement is unlikely, but the sides communicating - days after a report surfaced that the union's settlement inquiries went unanswered - appears to be a step in the right direction.

At the same time, with the New England Patriots' star quarterback thought to be staunch in pursuit of full exoneration, negotiations may prove difficult.

Brady made his case to commissioner Roger Goodell in a 10-hour appeal hearing in June, and there has still yet to be any sort of indication from the NFL as to when a ruling can be expected.

With training camps around the league now beginning to open, however, and the Patriots veteran players set to report Wednesday, a decision could conceivably be just around the corner.

While a settlement could officially conclude a story that has carried on throughout the entire offseason, placing the focus back on the field in time for the upcoming year, any discipline unacceptable to Brady and his representation may see it carry on for the foreseeable future in the form of litigation.