The findings of the Ted Wells report - the investigation into the New England Patriots DeflateGate controversy which developed in the wake of their victory over the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game - pointed to at least some level of awareness of the deflation of 11 of the Pats 12 game balls on the part of New England quarterback Tom Brady.
The report indicated that Brady was "more probably than not" at least "generally aware" of the fact that nearly all of the balls used by the Patriots offense in their dismantling of the Colts were underinflated.
The question then becomes, what happens to Brady?
"NFL considering discipline for Tom Brady, locker attendant Jim McNally, equipment asst John Jastremski, per source close to investigation," ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement, hinting that he would consider discipline for those involved.
I want to express my appreciation to Ted Wells and his colleagues for performing a thorough and independent investigation, the findings and conclusions of which are set forth in today's comprehensive report," Goodell wrote, per Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.
"As with other recent matters involving violations of competitive rules, Troy Vincent and his team will consider what steps to take in light of the report, both with respect to possible disciplinary action and to any changes in protocols that are necessary to avoid future incidents of this type. At the same time, we will continue our efforts vigorously to protect the integrity of the game and promote fair play at all times."
If the main focus of the NFL is fair play and the integrity of the game and Brady was at least "generally aware" of what was going on in relation to the Patriots footballs, then there's no question he should face discipline.
The tricky part will be determining just what a fair punishment is - and, perhaps more importantly, whether or not this will forever tarnish Brady's formerly golden image.
