Here’s a quick look at the Patriots and Dolphins…
It’ll be interesting to see whether Patriots quarterback Tom Brady enlists the help of the NFLPA to try and reduce his suspension, says Jason Cole of Bleacher Report (video link). It might seem like a slam dunk that the quarterback would use the union given their successful history in this department, but Cole hears that Brady is distrustful of the NFLPA ever since he was the named plaintiff in the lawsuit against the NFL during the 2011 lockout.
Jeffrey Kessler, the attorney whose legal action helped create free agency in the NFL, has been added to Brady’s legal team, according to Andrew Brandt of ESPN (on Twitter). Brandt expects that Kessler will handle the Patriots star’s appeal.
Dolphins fourth round rookie Jamil Douglas is determined to be in the starting lineup this year, James Walker of ESPN.com writes. “There’s definitely a sense of urgency,” Douglas said of his mindset. “That would be regardless of whether they needed it or not. I want to contribute to this team as much as possible and help this team win games. So there’s definitely a sense of urgency from me.” Dallas Thomas and Billy Turner are the two early favorites at left and right guard, respectively, but Douglas has plenty of experience with 40 career starts in college.