Conduct Detrimental: Examining the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Commissioner’s Role Through a Case Study of Deflategate

Authors

David Shyu

First Page

181

Last Page

202

Document Type

Note

Abstract

This Note will closely examine whether the NFL, specifically its Commissioner, has exceeded its authority in its handling of the recent incident involving allegations of the New England Patriots and quarterback Tom Brady’s role in deflating footballs during a crucial playoff game. The Note will look at the existing the NFL current Collective Bargaining Agreement, and trace the source of the Commissioner’s power. Then it will delve into the details of the case—including the Wells Report and investigation, the arbitration process, and the District Court opinion. The Note will analyze the District Court’s opinion in anticipation of the Second Circuit’s appellate review. Finally, it will conclude by examining the history of the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreements and suggesting a possible solution to ensure a system of checks and balances among the players of the collective bargaining process.

Recommended Citation

David Shyu, Conduct Detrimental: Examining the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Commissioner’s Role Through a Case Study of Deflategate, 17 Pepp. Disp. Resol. L.J. 181 (2017)
Available at: https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/drlj/vol17/iss2/1