Looking to have the league appoint an independent arbitrator to hear Tom Brady's four-game suspension appeal, the NFLPA has formally requested that commissioner Roger Goodell recuse himself from the case.
The NFLPA cites "procedural violations" of the collective bargaining agreement and its desire to call Goodell as a witness in the appeal as reasons why the commissioner is unfit to preside over Brady's hearing.
"The players also believe that the commissioner's history of inconsistently issuing discipline against our players makes him ill-suited to hear this appeal in a fair-minded manner," the union stated in its press release.
Goodell maintains the power to serve as the arbitrator in all disciplinary appeals, and as Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports, the commissioner is unlikely to step aside despite the union's request.
Expect Roger Goodell’s response to the NFLPA’s request to not include a change. He wants to look Tom Brady in the eye, hear his story.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 19, 2015
On the surface, given his approval of the initial discipline, Goodell opting to hear the appeal could limit Brady's chances of having his suspension reduced.
At the same time, having the opportunity to meet directly with Goodell rather than independent investigators could conceivably give the New England Patriots quarterback a better opportunity to state his case.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced Tuesday that the team will not appeal the severe punishment handed down by the league, but, according to Greg Bedard of MMQB.com, that does not include a deal regarding a potential reduction of Brady's suspension.
While Brady's case will likely be heard in the near future, the NFL and NFLPA have yet to announce a date for the proceedings to officially begin.