A resolution in the cases of alleged free agent tampering with the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles will likely be reached this week, according to league sources.
The Falcons have been investigated for contact they may or may not have had with free agent quarterback Kirk Cousins before signing with Atlanta. The Eagles were investigated regarding a connection they may or may not have had with then-free agent running back Saquon Barkley. The NFL spoke to various members of both organizations.
One league source noted that the Falcons’ alleged transgressions are considered more significant, and discipline is expected to be harsher for Atlanta.
In the past, the league took tampering seriously and punished teams accordingly.
The Miami Dolphins lost their 2023 first-round pick and their 2024 third-round pick for tampering with quarterback Tom Brady and coach Sean Payton on three occasions from 2019 to 2022. Team owner Stephen Ross and vice chairman/limited partner Bruce Bell were fined; Ross was fined $1.5 million, while Bell was fined $500,000.
The Kansas City Chiefs lost their 2016 third-round pick and 2017 sixth-round pick for tampering with wide receiver Jeremy Maclin in 2015. The Chiefs were also fined $250,000. Coach Andy Reid was fined $75,000, and then-general manager John Dorsey was fined $25,000.
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