To be fair, nobody - you included- knew there were internal documents proving the conspiracy. The smoking gun makes a huge difference legally. Any two-bit wannabe armchair lawyer can see that.
That's why the "investigation" took 13 months, to provide substantial "billable hours" as compensation just in case things went sideways. The outcome had been pre-determined a year ago. There's no way that Goodell wasn't aware of what was happening.
I mostly think the investigation lasted so long awaiting for unknown potential evidence (ie video, photos text, etc) to surface. In the Ray Rice case, the NFL acted swiftly to punish him. However, when the elevator video released, there punishment was seen as way too lenient and the NFL was left with serious egg on its face. This is looking to be a two dozen egg omelette!!
I read some reports that the league had the Rice video before their ruling and only did an about face after it became public. I have no idea if it's true or not.
Oh I believe they saw it or at least knew of it's existence. More cover up.
you're correct....there is some ambiguity surrounding the timeline of what the NFL knew and when.....who would've thought?!
I bet he lays low again like he did with Ray Rice hoping it will blow over. lol
If he doesn't after this surprise, but justified restraining order, and all the evidence of wrong doing that he in an accomplice to, then he's not too smart.
