Deflategate judge says Brady suspension in jeopardy

NEW YORK (AP) — Tom Brady might have reason to practice more intensely after a judge made clear today the New England quarterback's four-game suspension for underinflated footballs is in jeopardy.

U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman warned an NFL lawyer during oral arguments that there was precedent for judges to toss out penalties issued by arbitrators in the scandal now known as "Deflategate."

Berman cited several weaknesses in the way the NFL handled the controversy that could result in a victory by Brady and the NFL Players Association.

The suspension was upheld by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell last month after he concluded Brady conspired with two Patriots equipment employees to deflate footballs before New England easily beat the Indianapolis Colts in January's AFC championship game.

If there is no negotiated deal, Berman said he hopes to rule by Sept. 4, six days before the Patriots host the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL's season-opening game. He encouraged a settlement, calling it a "logical and rational option."