NFL accuses NFLPA of trying to shame Elliott accuser

The NFL accused the NFLPA of trying to "shame and blame" Ezekiel Elliott's accuser Wednesday as the union prepares its appeal of the Dallas Cowboys running back's six-game suspension.

Four external advisers declared there was "persuasive and substantial" evidence that Elliott used physical force against his ex-girlfriend on multiple occasions. After Friday's suspension, the NFLPA stated it will "ensure the NFL is held to its obligation of adhering" to its principles.

In Wednesday's statement, the NFL said the NFLPA was attempting to "prove the innocence of the accused by discrediting the victim."

Earlier Wednesday, Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports obtained an NFL report that revealed Elliott's ex-girlfriend, Tiffany Thompson, admitted to NFL investigators she considered blackmailing Elliott by selling sex tapes.

The appeal of Elliott's suspension has reportedly been scheduled for Aug. 29, and will not be overseen by commissioner Roger Goodell.