NFL defers action against Saints players

NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced Tuesday that disciplinary action against two New Orleans Saints defensive ends has been placed on hold.

Goodell said Charles Grant and Will Smith will not face immediate disciplinary action for their involvement in an ongoing battle over 2008 suspensions incurred for banned substance violations.

Goodell's announcement came after last Friday's ruling by an appellate court in Minnesota that favored Vikings defensive linemen Kevin and Pat Williams in their fight against the same violations facing the New Orleans players.

The ruling allowed the Williamses to continue playing while their case against the NFL continues. The NFL argued that state lawsuits are not covered by the league's collective bargaining agreement with the players because federal courts have jurisdiction in regard to the drug policy.

The Minnesota ruling applies only to that state's laws but Goodell decided to hold off on enforcing penalties on Grant and Smith until the Minnesota case is resolved.