Why Vilma v. Goodell is much more than just a defamation lawsuit
 

Vilma v. Goodell is more than just a defamation lawsuit. It is a direct challenge to a commissioner who, until now, has acted with more power than any commissioner in U.S. sports history. It is also an attempt to import judicial review of an individual who, until now, has been judge, jury and executioner of NFL justice.

Read more: Jonathan Vilma v. Roger Goodell is more than just a defamation lawsuit - Michael McCann - SI.com

Yeah... Saw that... This is getting fun to see Goodell feel the heat!

Hopefully this changes the way the NFL handles suspensions/appeals

Been thinking that for a while now. This whole "one-man-is-judge-jury-executioner" thing couldn't be more unAmerican. Give 'em hell Jon!

Ok the gloves are off.

Lawyer up Goodell. I don't think he'll be able to use a NFL lawyer for this one since it's personal and not the NFL Vilma's challenging

Well, like it or not, Vilma has now put himself in a position that he must win or his NFL career is over. I get that he should appeal his year long suspension, but seriously, suing Goodell is going to blacklist him, of course unofficially but officially. I do respect that Vilma has the mindset to challenge them, good for him, hope he wins and gets his suspension overturned.

Man is the UGLIETS off season the SAINTS have ever had.

Goodellgate

Goodellgate

Goodellgate

Goodellgate

As for the evidence, I have a feeling all he has is a big stack of testimonies from people who do not want to get involved beyond making confidential statements. That is not going to fly. These people will in fact have to swear under oath. This could be a big problem for Goodell. If they didn't want to be known then they certainly won't want to be known now. Even if the court promises to protect their identity that may not be enough. They could just say, um....no thanks.