NFL files documents for Deflategate appeal

The NFL has filed documents with an appeals court, saying why it disagrees with a federal judge’s ruling in Deflategate.

The 200-page filing with the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals on Thursday consists almost entirely of exhibits from the district court. In that case, Judge Richard Berman vacated NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s four-game suspension of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

The NFL has said it will appeal Berman’s ruling. The league says the judge erred in his analysis of the law and precedents in at least three instances.

Brady was suspended and the Super Bowl champions were docked $1 million and two draft picks after a league investigation found the team provided improperly inflated footballs for the AFC title game against the Indianapolis Colts in January.

Etc.

Houston Coach Bill O’Brien confirmed Thursday that Ryan Mallett will start at quarterback for the Texans on Sunday at Carolina, replacing Week 1 starter Brian Hoyer.

Baltimore Ravens starting left tackle Eugene Monroe remained out of practice Thursday, increasing the likelihood that he won’t play Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.

Monroe sustained a head injury on the Ravens’ first drive Sunday against the Denver Broncos and is undergoing the league’s concussion protocol.

If Monroe can’t play Sunday, James Hurst is expected to take his place.

Green Bay Packers right tackle Bryan Bulaga left practice Thursday after injuring his left knee and his status for Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks was unclear.

Given Bulaga’s history, it’s hard for his teammates not to worry. Before a bounce-back season last year, Bulaga had suffered season-ending injuries in both 2012 and 2013.

Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy practiced on a limited basis after experiencing tightness in the left hamstring he injured during training camp.

Coach Rex Ryan said he didn’t expect the injury to prevent McCoy from playing Sunday, when the Bills host the New England Patriots.

The Patriots acquired wide receiver Keshawn Martin from Houston Texans for an undisclosed draft pick. New England released defensive lineman Khyri Thornton.