ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter reported on Sunday that the Falcons and Eagles were likely to receive punishments for tampering with Kirk Cousins and Saquon Barkley, respectively. However, the work week has ended without any announcements, so it may not happen unless there is a surprise announcement on Saturday. Schefter did use the word “likely,” so there is still some uncertainty, as plans have changed in the past after leaks.
It is unclear why the actions have not been taken yet, but there is no immediate deadline for the punishments. If the penalty includes losing 2025 draft picks, it does not need to be handed out until April of next year. Despite the timing, the report over the weekend suggested that both teams were going to face consequences, with the Falcons expected to receive a harsher punishment than the Eagles.
Whether the announcement comes today, next week, next month, or later, it is inevitable. The nature of the punishments and the transparency of the league regarding the evidence and investigation will be key factors to watch for.