Updated: Sep 13, 2007, 10:43 PM

Vote: Was New England's punishment fair?



Did the Patriots get what they deserve?
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell came down hard on the Patriots for violating league rules by videotaping the New York Jets' defensive signals. A total of $750,000 in fines and the possible loss of a first round draft pick (second and third round picks if the Patriots do not make the playoffs) has sent a strong message to the rest of the league that such actions will not be tolerated.

Is the punishment too harsh? Or did the Patriots get off light? And what do you make of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's first 11 months on the job in which he has dished out punishments for Pacman Jones (suspended for season for multiple off-field issues), Michael Vick (suspended indefinitely after pleading guilty to dogfighting charges) and Shawn Merriman (suspended four games for violating NFL substance abuse policy)?

Cast your votes now and compare your results with that of SportsNation!

  • 1) What is your reaction to the Patriots' punishment?
  • 2) Should the Patriots' draft pick(s) be given to the Jets?
  • 3) Would the Patriots have beaten the Jets without the videotape assistance?
  • 4) Did Jets head coach Eric Mangini break an unwritten rule by tattling on his former team?
  • 5) How widespread do you believe in-game videotaping in the NFL to be?
  • 6) The NFL Competition Committee is considering a resolution that would allow a radio receiver in the helmet of one defensive player. Should teams vote to pass this resolution?
  • 7) Considering Goodell's handling of Pacman Jones, Michael Vick, steroids and now the Patriots, how would you grade the job he has done as commissioner?
  • 8) Will the Patriots make the playoffs and thus have to give up a first round draft pick?

ESPN Conversations


You must be signed in to post a comment

Already have an account?

You are fully responsible for the content you post. Content that includes profanity, personal attacks or antisocial behavior (such as "spamming" or "trolling"), or other inappropriate content or material will be removed. We reserve the right to block any user who violates our terms of use, including removing all content posted by that user.

SportsNation on Facebook

THIS WEEK'S CHATS

Tuesday, May 14 Wednesday, May 15Thursday, May 16Friday, May 17Monday, May 20