NFL antitrust suit to be heard April 6, but not by Judge Doty

Tampa - Is this politics at its judicial best? So far, two U.S. District Court judges recused themselves from hearing the NFL federal antitrust suit.

The case has now landed in Judge Susan Richard Nelson’s court, and may still yet be reassigned.

At this point an April 6 hearing date has been scheduled.

The players would like to have the case heard in Judge David Doty’s court. Doty has overseen NFL labor matters since the early 1990’s.

Meanwhile, Bucs cornerback Ronde Barber was enjoying a round of golf today at Innisbrook.

Barber took part in the Shelton Quarles Celebrity Pro-Am, a prelude to the Transitions Championship which gets underway on Thursday.

Barber said he’s a little bothered by the recent developments and he wants to play football.

Barber said, “I don’t want to go into the offseason with uncertainty when we’re going to get back on the football field. Let’s them work it out. I’m confident it will get done, I’m just not sure when.”

Bucs Head Coach Raheem Morris was also playing in the event. Morris said, “I control what I can control. I have great faith in the league and what they do. I’m just getting ready for the draft, which is making this time a little easier on me.”

A third development has also reared it head in Congress. Senior House Democrat John Conyers says he will introduce legislation today to strip the NFL of its anti-trust exemption for broadcasting contracts.

Just a fun day in the NFL.