So now what?
 

will these players appeal?

Maybe.

If the players appeal that's their business. I think the NFL is singling these players out as individuals responsible for their own actions.
Technically Green Bay and Cleveland got hit with this too, but that's because these individuals were involved.

If they choose to appeal that's their right.

As for the Saints, I'm hopeful Bountygate is coming to a close.

They will appeal on principle, but it won't matter...

I don't want to drag this out. The first part of the season is easier than the last half.imho I would rather Smith be gone for the first part of the season and then come in and contribute late when we need fresh blood.

I expect Vilma to appeal, I hate to say it but sitting out this year probably will be the end of his career...

I'm probably in the minority among Saints fans, but I want it dragged out from here to the moon and back.

I agree. Goddell obviously was punishing intent, and not an actual hit, which make Vilma's suspension ridiculous. He has never been mentioned as a dirty player, and has already gotten support around the league.
Let the PA's high-priced lawyers piss off god-all for another couple weeks.

Oh, zero chance it gets reduced, but I like the nuisance factor and a little more press

Does a cat have climbing gear?

They probably will appeal but goodell won't change his mind, only thing we can do is move on.....for like the 50th time this offseason, it's all we've been able to do anytime we got accused of anything

This was on ESPN.COM - I refuse to link back:

“I am shocked and extremely disappointed by the NFL’s decision to suspend me for the 2012 season. Commissioner Roger Goodell has refused to share any of the supposed evidence he claims supports this unprecedented punishment. The reason is clear: I never paid, or intended to pay, $10,000, or any amount of money, to any player for knocking Kurt Warner, Brett Favre or any other player out of the 2009 Divisional playoff game, 2010 NFC Championship Game or any other game.

“I never set out to intentionally hurt any player and never enticed any teammate to intentionally hurt another player. I also never put any money into a bounty pool or helped to create a bounty pool intended to pay out money for injuring other players. I have always conducted myself in a professional and proud manner.

“I intend to fight this injustice, to defend my reputation, to stand up for my team and my profession, and to send a clear signal to the commissioner that the process has failed, to the detriment of me, my teammates, the New Orleans Saints and the game.’’

That's what Vilma released through his lawyer. Give 'em HELL Vilma!