forcing Vilma to file a grievance under the CBA.

So the decision to lie about a persons actions, destroy their personal reputation, deny them the evidence to refute to protect their good name, and deprive them of their livelihood had to be made, for player safety reasons?

The NFL has responded to the lawsuit filed Thursday by Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma against Commissioner Roger Goodell for defamation.

“We have not yet reviewed the filing,” NFL spokesman Greg Aiello told PFT via email. “However, our commitment to player safety and the integrity of the game is our main consideration. We recognize that not everyone will agree with decisions that need to be made.”

Goodell will have 30 days to formally respond to the complaint, once it is officially served. It will be far more detailed than the paragraph appearing above, and it likely will consist of an effort to dismiss the case, possibly under the argument that the labor agreement supersedes the litigation process, forcing Vilma to file a grievance under the CBA.

Payton vs Goodell and Loomis vs Goodell should be next.

Here's where the CBA can't come into play. This is not NFLPA v. NFL. This is Vilma v. Goodell. The NFL has no jurisdiction, therefore the CBA does not come into play. This is a private lawsuit by one individual against the other. The NFL may tell Goodell he is on his own as right now they are not included in any liability.

Very slick move by his lawyer.

I think as a sign of support for Vilma, we should ALL file lawsuits, personally and individually, against Roger Goodell.....

You know a lawyer that can hook us up with a group discount? If so, count me in.