FILE - In this Nov. 30, 2012, file photo, New Orleans Saints football defensive end Will Smith, left, and linebacker Jonathan Vilma arrive at an attorney's office in Washington, for a hearing on their appeals of bounties suspensions. Former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, who was appointed to handle a second round of player appeals to the league, has informed all parties he planned to rule by Tuesday, Dec. 11, and his decision could affect whether two current Saints — Jonathan Vilma and Will Smith — get to play out the season. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, File)
Saints' suspensions tossed out in bounty case
FILE - In this Nov. 30, 2012, file photo, New Orleans Saints football defensive end Will Smith, left, and linebacker Jonathan Vilma arrive at an attorney's office in Washington, for a hearing on their appeals of bounties suspensions. Former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, who was appointed to handle a second round of player appeals to the league, has informed all parties he planned to rule by Tuesday, Dec. 11, and his decision could affect whether two current Saints — Jonathan Vilma and Will Smith — get to play out the season. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen, File)
By BRETT MARTEL
AP Sports Writer /
December 11, 2012
Text Size:
- –
- +
Page 3 of 3 --
A statement released by Vilma’s lawyers on his behalf said the linebacker is ‘‘relieved and gratified that Jonathan no longer needs to worry about facing an unjustified suspension.
‘‘On the other hand, Commissioner Tagliabue’s rationalization of Commissioner Goodell’s actions does nothing to rectify the harm done by the baseless allegations lodged against Jonathan. Jonathan has a right and every intention to pursue proving what really occurred and we look forward to returning to a public forum where the true facts can see the light of day.’’
© Copyright 2013 Globe Newspaper Company.
