Tom Brady's four-game suspension was upheld by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday. It's safe to say the New England Patriots didn't appreciate the decision.
"We are extremely disappointed in today's ruling by Commissioner Goodell," the Patriots said in a statement. "We cannot comprehend the league's position in this matter. Most would agree that the penalties levied originally were excessive and unprecedented, especially in light of the fact that the league has no hard evidence of wrongdoing. We continue to unequivocally believe in and support Tom Brady.
"We also believe that the laws of science continue to underscore the folly of this entire ordeal. Given all of this, it is incomprehensible as to why the league is attempting to destroy the reputation of one of its greatest players and representatives."
Very few team statements over the years took such a hard stance against the NFL. (Although it is in a similar tone to the Patriots' statement back in May when Brady was initially suspended.) The NFLPA also was aggressive in their statement, calling the decision "ridiculous."
The biggest takeaway from Tuesday's decision: No resolution is near. Brady's legal team will ensure that this story continues indefinitely in court.
*The latest Around The NFL Podcast discusses which coaches are on the hot seat heading into 2015. *
