Goodell to meet with players in bounty scandal

New York, NY, United States (4E Sports) – NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will meet with the four players suspended for their alleged involvement in the New Orleans Saints bounty program.

According to multiple media reports Tuesday, Goodell will meet with Jonathan Vilma, Will Smith, Scott Fujita and Anthony Hargrove, all of whom were suspended by the commissioner had their suspensions overturned on Friday by an appeals panel.

Goodell could suspend the players again, but he must do so within the confines of his authority.

The dates of the meetings have not been established, according to reports, but they probably will not take place before next week.

Goodell has said he will listen to what those players have to say before determining what, if any, punishment should be levied.

Earlier Tuesday, Vilma’s attorney, Peter Ginsberg, said Vilma would let the NFL know he was willing to meet with Goodell for the first time regarding bounty allegations.

“If the commissioner feels sitting down with Jonathan and discussing matters will lead to a quick and fair resolution, Jonathan has been and continues to be willing to cooperate in any way that helps the truth come out,” Ginsberg told ESPN. “We only hope the commissioner keeps an open mind and doesn’t feel restricted by his previous and clearly erroneous conclusions.”

Vilma walked out of an appeals hearing with Goodell in August, and he requested a meeting with Goodell that he later canceled.

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