Roger Goodell: Tom Brady Deflategate appeal decision coming soon

Roger Goodell is set to make a ruling on Tom Brady’s appeal of his four-game suspension for his involvement in the New England Patriots’ Deflategate scandal as soon as next week, according to CNBC.

Goodell reportedly told the network of his intentions to rule on the appeal on Thursday at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference in Idaho. It has been 16 days since Goodell heard Brady’s 10-hour appeal on June 23.

Brady was suspended in May following the release of investigator Ted Wells’ report, commissioned by the NFL, which said the quarterback was “at least generally aware of inappropriate activities” involving the deflation of footballs.

He was ultimately suspended for conduct detrimental to the game for failing to cooperate with the investigation.

The three-time Super Bowl MVP denied altering or having knowledge of a scheme to deflate footballs following the Patriots’ victory over the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC championship game when several footballs were found to be below the league-mandated air pressure of 12.5 to 14.5-pounds-per-square-inch.

The Patriots were also fined $1 million and must forfeit a first round pick in next year’s draft and a fourth rounder in 2017. New England opted not to appeal its punishment.

Patriots rookies are scheduled to report to training camp July 23 with veterans joining them on July 29. Even if he is suspended, Brady will be able to take part in the team’s practices.

Second-year pro Jimmy Garoppolo is expected to start in Brady’s place if Goodell upholds the veteran’s suspension.

Follow Matt Wilhalme on Twitter @mattwilhalme