LMNO.LA

Deflategate, Ballghazi, or whatever the hell you want to call it is finally over. After months of investigating an accusation against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots for deflating footballs. Roger Goodell and the NFL laid down a severe penalty to one of its most decorated players.

In a statement released by the NFL today, the league stated:

“For the violation of the playing rules and the failure to cooperate in the subsequent investigation, the New England Patriots are fined $1 million and will forfeit the club’s first-round selection in the 2016 NFL Draft and the club’s fourth-round selection in the 2017 NFL Draft. If the Patriots have more than one selection in either of these rounds, the earlier selection shall be forfeited. The club may not trade or otherwise encumber these selections.”

If that didn’t seem harsh enough, it gets worse:

“Quarterback Tom Brady will be suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2015 regular season for conduct detrimental to the integrity of the NFL. Brady may participate in all off-season, training camp and pre-season activities, including pre-season games.”

The million-dollar fine is a drop in the bucket for Patriots owner Robert Kraft, but losing a franchise winning QB like Brady could be costly next season. The AFC East has been owned by New England ever since Brady became the starter in 2001. While the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Buffalo Bills have vastly improved over last season, we’re certain Tom isn’t worried.