The NFL acted on Monday, after the Baltimore Ravens released running back Ray Rice, by suspending him indefinitely. The NFL was not really praised for the decision, but called out for not making it in the first place and faced scrutiny for their handling of the situation and investigation into it.
For his part in the situation, Rice hasn’t commented on the suspension but now we know that he will appeal it.
BREAKING: Ray Rice will appeal NFL's indefinite suspension in domestic violence case. (via @AdamSchefter & @ProFootballTalk)
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 15, 2014
From Pro Football Talk:
"According to multiple league sources, Rice will appeal the indefinite suspension on Monday.The appeal will be handled by the NFLPA and by an outside lawyer retained by Rice."
It doesn’t come as too much of a surprise, fans couldn’t expect Ray Rice would stay away from the league which he has played and earned millions in for years. That is his career, all he knows to a certain degree, and the source of his livelihood.
Now here is where it gets interesting, commissioner Roger Goodell has ultimate authority over the appeal, and Goodell in particular has come under fire for his handling of the situation and many have called for his job. He might be inclined to keep Rice out of the league to protect himself.
What Rice will likely do, is ask for Goodell to designate a hearing officer like we saw happen in the New Orleans Saints bountygate case.