Following the nullification of Tom Brady's four-game suspension, the New England Patriots have made an effort to bring back the staffers involved in the deflated ball story that has dominated this offseason.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport confirmed with an NFL spokesman that the Patriots sent the league a request to reinstate staffers John Jastremski and Jim McNally from suspension.
"It is under review," spokesman Brian McCarthy said.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the issue during his appearance on ESPN Radio Tuesday, saying the Patriots suspended their employees originally. Goodell also spoke about why the two men were not asked to testify during the appeals hearing.
"That's an interesting question because I asked both parties towards the end of the hearing whether I should hear from them directly. Both parties -- well particularly, the union's side -- said it wasn't necessary," Goodell said. "They didn't feel it was a necessary step and the management counsel side said we think we have sufficient information, but the fact that the union doesn't want you to hear from them should be taken into account. I think they are important figures in this, but we chose not to go any further at this point."
