A New York judge says he'll rule by Friday whether New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady must serve a four-game suspension for "Deflategate."
Judge Richard Berman issued a one-sentence order Tuesday saying he planned to rule by Friday whether the NFL properly followed its collective bargaining agreement with players when it suspended Brady for his role in using underinflated footballs in a playoff game.
A report claimed Brady was aware that team employees deflated balls before the AFC title game.
No matter what the judge decides, both sides can appeal. So, the legal battle may not be over this week.
The NFL wants Brady's suspension upheld. The NFL Players Association wants it struck down.
Brady and the Patriots kick off the regular season against the Steelers on Sept. 10.
