What about Brady's appeal?
For those hoping the commissioner would take it easy on Tom Brady now that the Patriots are going down without a fight, well, that won't be happening. According to Goodell, Kraft's decision to back down will have no impact on Brady's appeal.
"I have a great admiration and respect for Tom Brady," Goodell said. "But the rules have to be enforced on a uniform basis, and they apply to everyone in the league."
Goodell isn't sure when Brady's appeal will be heard. What he did say, however, is that Brady's appeal could come down to Brady and his representatives sharing new information.
"There's a process in place we want to follow," [Goodell not Kraft] said. "The key for us is to be able to allow any information Tom Brady and his representatives have. Is there any new information he can bring clarity to, or something that wasn't in the Wells Report? ... That's why we'll keep an open mind."
He also noted that Brady's lack of cooperation throughout the initial process contributed to his four-game suspension.
"... When there isn't full cooperation, that is certainly part of the discipline," Goodell said.