NFLPA appeals Rice suspension, cites lack of 'fair process'

The NFL Players Union Tuesday issued a formal appeal of Baltimore Ravens' running back Ray Rice's indefinite suspension.

The NFL Players Association Tuesday issued a formal appeal of Baltimore Ravens' running back Ray Rice's indefinite suspension, citing the need for a "fair and impartial" process. 

The statement reads as follows:

"Today, the NFL Players Association formally filed an appeal of the indefinite suspension of Ray Rice by the NFL. This action taken by our union is to protect the due process rights of all NFL players.

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. We have asked that a neutral and jointly selected arbitrator hear this case as the Commissioner and his staff will be essential witnesses in the proceeding and thus cannot serve as impartial arbitrators."

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodellinitially suspended Rice two games for his conduct, but changed Rice's suspension to an indefinite length last week after video surfaced of Rice knocking his wife unconscious in an elevator. The Ravens released Rice last week. 

An investigation is underway as to whether Goodell had seen the disturbing video at the time he leveled the two-game suspension. A law enforcement official told the Associated Press he gave the footage to an NFL employee in April.

Rice was expected to appeal his suspension. 

- Will Green