Report: NFL tampering rulings expected this week

Field Level Media|published: 06/02/2024, 11:07am EDT

Jan 7, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) talks with teammates prior to their game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

A resolution in the potential free agent tampering cases involving the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles likely is expected this week, ESPN reported Sunday morning.

The NFL confirmed in March that it was looking into the possibility of tampering by the teams prior to the start of free agency. The reviews focus on quarterback Kirk Cousins agreeing to a four-year, $180 million contract with the Falcons, and running back Saquon Barkley signing a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Eagles.

ESPN cited one league source as indicating that the Falcons' situation is considered more significant, and the discipline is expected to be more severe.

The Miami Dolphins forfeited their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and a third-round selection in 2024 for tampering with quarterback Tom Brady and coach Sean Payton.

The Kansas City Chiefs lost their third-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft and a sixth-round selection in 2017 for tampering with wide receiver Jeremy Maclin in 2015.

The Dolphins and Chiefs also were fined as part of their respective punishments.

--Field Level Media