Kevin and Pat Williams case: Key ruling expected today

By PAUL WALSH, Star Tribune

Last update: July 9, 2009 - 8:50 AM

A Hennepin County judge is expected to rule today on whether Vikings linemen Kevin and Pat Williams can play while their federal case involving use of a banned substance works it way through appeals.

The star defensive linemen want to be able to continue to play football, but the NFL wants them to serve out their suspensions. The Vikings open training camp on July 30 in Mankato.

The Williamses used the over-the-counter StarCaps supplement, which were found to contain the banned diuretic bumetanide, a substance that can mask steroid use. Lawyers for the Williamses contend that the NFL knew in 2006 that StarCaps contained the substance -- even though it wasn't listed on the label -- but never told the players.

The players were suspended for four games last year after it was found they took the substance. Larson allowed them to continue to play before the NFL took the case to federal court.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482