NFLPA files appeal for Elliott sanction
NFL
The NFL Players Association has appealed Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott’s sixgame suspension over the league’s conclusion that its 2016 rushing leader injured his former girlfriend in three separate incidents last summer.
The union said yesterday it will represent Elliott “to ensure that the NFL is held to its obligation of adhering to principles of industrial due process under the collective bargaining agreement.”
The NFL suspended Elliott last week after a yearlong investigation into an Ohio domestic violence case that prosecutors declined to pursue. Elliott’s attorneys blasted Commission Roger Goodell’s ruling, saying the league “cherrypicked” evidence to reach its conclusion.
A hearing with Goodell or an arbitrator will be scheduled within 10 days with a decision “as soon as practicable” after the appeal is heard, according to the labor agreement.
Lippett out
Miami Dolphins cornerback Tony Lippett will miss the entire season. Lippett tore his Achilles tendon during practice Monday and will need surgery.
Lippett, who started 13 games last year and had four interceptions, was expected to be the No. 3 corner behind Byron Maxwell and Xavien Howard.
Mixed message
Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll is supporting Michael Bennett’s decision to sit during the national anthem while also saying he believes players should stand for “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Carroll said he’s met with Bennett on a couple of occasions since Sunday to talk about his actions.
“It’s easy for me to support him in his issues. But I think we should all be standing up when we’re playing the national anthem,” Carroll said.
Unlucky Lucky
New York Jets wide receiver Lucky Whitehead has a broken foot and will be sidelined indefinitely . . . .
The Carolina Panthers signed outside linebacker Thomas Davis to a one-year contract extension through 2018. The deal is worth $6.76 million, with $3 million guaranteed, a source told The Associated Press . ...
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman is likely to miss two months after injuring his ankle in the preseason opener . ...
Beth Mowins will become the first woman to call NFL play-by-play for CBS.