The Patriots' use of illegal videotapes of opponents' defensive signals, which formed the basis of the Spygate scandal in 2007, was far more widespread than first thought and was a major reason the NFL intensely pursued the team's alleged use of purposely deflated footballs in last season's AFC Championship Game, ESPN's "Outside The Lines" reported.
The report, published on ESPN's website Tuesday morning, said the Patriots had an elaborate system of spying since Bill Belichick became their coach in 2000. It also said low-level employees were told to videotape opponents' signals and go through their locker rooms to steal play sheets to be used in games.
"Outside The Lines" reported the Patriots videotaped signals in at least 40 games from 2000 through the 2007 opener against the Jets. The Jets reported illegal taping in that game, prompting an investigation in which the Patriots were found guilty. Belichick was fined $500,000, a record for an NFL coach, and the Patriots were stripped of a first-round draft pick.
The article also said that because of the perception the NFL didn't act as forcefully on Spygate as it could have, it "shaped (Commissioner Roger Goodell's) dogged insistence that Brady be suspended for deflating footballs in last year's AFC title game."
Goodell willing to lessen disciplinary role
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is willing to lessen his role in the player discipline process, but he's still reluctant to give up final say.
Goodell said he's "very open" to changing his role. But he indicated any change would come within the initial discipline process, not with the way appeals are handled.
Cassel back with Bills
Former Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel is back with the Bills, and he's taking over the No. 2 job. Cassel was waived but then brought back on a one-year deal for less money.
