Some of the most frequently asked questions about New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's appeal hearing Tuesday:
When will there be a decision? The collective bargaining agreement calls for commissioner Roger Goodell to make a decision "as soon as practicable." There is no set timetable. For a comparison, Greg Hardy's appeal hearing, with Harold Henderson as arbitrator, was held on May 28 and there has yet to be a ruling.
What does it mean that Brady testified under oath? This was significant because Brady was "putting his actual freedom on the line in arguing the NFL got it wrong." Specifically, as noted by Michael McCann, Brady "could face criminal charges for perjury if it is later proven (by a prosecutor, not Goodell) that he knowingly lied. At the same time, Brady sends a powerful message that he’s willing to risk criminal charges to prove that he is innocent of the allegations."
Who was walking with Brady into the NFL's offices? Brady was accompanied by his agent, Don Yee, and NFL Players Association attorney Heather McPhee.
What are Brady's options if he doesn't like the result? Brady can file a lawsuit in federal court, but experts predict an uphill battle in that area.
Will we learn of the details of what was discussed? Arbitration is meant to be confidential, but if this ends up in federal court, transcripts could be released.
