Kraft, Patriots Ready For War With NFL

Roger Goodell's decision on Tuesday to uphold Tom Brady's four-game suspension for his alleged role in an alleged ball tampering incident before the AFC Championship Game pretty much ensured that Brady and the NFL Player's Association would take the league to federal court to keep him on the field.

Now it looks like he has the full backing of Patriots owner Robert Kraft in his battle with Goodell and the NFL.

Speaking today to the media, Kraft delivered a statement that was highly critical of Goodell and the entire process that has dragged on since the Patriots 45-7 victory over the Colts on January 18.

Kraft spoke with regret of his decision to not appeal the punishment handed down to the team over this incident, which stripped them of a first and a fourth round draft picks as well as $1-million fine, admitting that it was a mistake to place his trust in the league.  He did explain the move, saying he felt that not appealing the team's punishment would make it easier on Brady in his appeal.

Brady's next step will be to have his lawyers file suit against the NFL to have the suspension overturned.  

It will also bear watching how things play out between Kraft, one of the league's most influential owners, and Goodell.

Following Kraft at the press conference was Bill Belichick, who to no one's surprise made no comments regarding the issue with Brady.