AFC East Notes: Patriots, Edelman, Jets, Darnold, Long

Julian Edelman took the next step in fighting his four game suspension when his team made their arguments in his suspension appeal today. It was reported earlier today that the star Patriots receiver would be challenging the process through which Edelman tested positive for a banned substance, claiming that the league mishandled his samples and that there were errors in the chain of custody.

Now that the hearing is over, more details are trickling in. The hearing reportedly “lasted most of the day” according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network (Twitter link). Pelissero adds that there’s “no firm timetable” for a ruling on the matter but that “it could be next week.” While the overturning of suspensions in the appeals process is rare, it’s certainly not unheard of. It could be a while before we have any clarity on the situation.

For now, here’s more from the AFC East:

  • Although the Jets signed center Spencer Long to a four-year $27.5MM deal this past March, the team isn’t necessarily committed to him longterm, according to Brian Costello of the NY Post. Costello points out that while the deal “looks big on the surface”, all the “guaranteed money is in this season.” Costello thinks “if Long struggles or cannot stay on the field, the Jets could move on after this season easily.”
  • Sam Darnold might be one of the youngest quarterbacks drafted in league history, but that doesn’t mean he can’t start for the Jets right away. “There’s a better than 50-50 chance he wins the job outright in camp” opines Albert Breer of SI.com. In that scenario, Josh McCown would likely back up the rookie, which would make it more likely that popular trade candidate Teddy Bridgewater is dealt.
  • In case you missed it, check out the latest on Edelman and the details about what exactly his appeals team of high-priced lawyers are arguing.
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