The federal judge handling New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's attempt to overturn his four-game suspension strongly suggested Brady and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell appear in court on Aug. 12 and 19.
U.S. District Judge Richard Berman told the sides Friday he had scheduled conferences on both days "with your principles (including, without limitation, Mr. Goodell and Mr. Brady)." He also requested the parties "engage in comprehensive, good-faith settlement discussions prior to the conference on August 12."
Earlier in the day, the NFL and the players' union said they wanted Berman to resolve their dispute over Brady's suspension by Sept. 4 -- six days before the Patriots' opener.
The league and union filed a joint letter in U.S. District Court on Friday proposing a ruling by that date in Brady's attempt to have his four-game suspension for his role in the use of deflated footballs in the AFC Championship Game in January overturned. The union did not seek a court order on Friday that would allow Brady to play while a court case dragged on.
Both sides agreed not to attempt to get a preliminary ruling before the full facts are aired.
Jeffrey Kessler, the lead lawyer in Brady's case, said in his filing with Judge Berman that the parties "agreed ... to a final resolution of this matter prior to the commencement of the 2015 regular season would be in everyone's best interest."
In an email to The Associated Press, the NFL confirmed it took part in filing the letter.
New England opens at home against Pittsburgh on Sept. 10. A decision before Sept. 4 would provide Brady with ample time to prepare for the game should he win his legal case. Brady is allowed to participate in all preseason and training camp activities.
The joint request all but eliminates any chance Brady will be forced to testify at a hearing. The judge's decision will be based solely on oral arguments by lawyers.
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