Jonathan Vilma and NFL hearing ends with no resolution

The settlement conference involving Jonathan Vilma, the NFL and the NFL Players Association broke after three hours of talks on Monday with no agreement reached.

The legal proceedings will continue Thursday when federal judge Helen Berrigan hears Vilma's motion for a temporary restraining order against his yearlong league-imposed suspension.

Vilma's attorney Peter Ginsberg confirmed a report from earlier Monday that the New Orleans Saints had placed Vilma on the reserve/suspended list. He indicated it was just a formality, following up on NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's suspension and that it would have no impact on Vilma's ability to participate in training camp if Berrigan issued a restraining order.

A source with knowledge of the proceedings said small progress was made in Monday's conference, but the parties are still far apart. 

Saints defensive end Will Smith, who is facing a four-game suspension, and Vilma, who is suspended for the entire season, attended the conference.

No one involved with the NFL investigation was present. Three attorneys, including NFL principal outside counsel Gregg Levy, represented the league.


(nola.com)