NFL Players Association appeals Ray Rice's indefinite suspension

NEW YORK, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- On Tuesday, the NFL Players Association -- the union that represents NFL players -- announced it is appealing the indefinite suspension of Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice.

According to the appeal Rice is owed due process and a fair hearing.

Rice was suspended indefinitely by the league last week after a video showing him punching his then fiancee Janay Palmer inside of an elevator at a New Jersey casino. Rice was initially suspended only two games.

In a statement, the NFLPA said, "The NFLPA appeal is based on supporting facts that reveal a lack of a fair and impartial process, including the role of the office of the Commissioner of the NFL."

The statement also said they would like a "neutral and jointly selected arbitrator" to hear the case because Commissioner Roger Goodell and his staff will be witnesses and cannot serve as "impartial arbitrators."

Rice had indicated on Monday he would appeal his suspension.