What Does Rice Suspension Mean for Greg Hardy?

Adam Schefter reports that the NFL front office will suspend Ray Rice for two games over the domestic violence episode from February 15. Rice reportedly knocked his now wife Janay Parker out. Rice apologized back in May. He pled not guilty in court, but accepted an intervention program.

Dec 22, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) greets Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) after the game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

The key importance here for Panthers fans is not what this says about Ray Rice, but what it could mean for Greg Hardy. Observers believe that Rice was treated leniently by Goodell. Goodell probably accepted that Rice had tried to own up to the situation and sought forgiveness. Still, Rice will be lost for two games and lose those pay checks.

Rice was never convicted, Hardy was. Rice and his wife sought public forgiveness. Hardy and his former girlfriend likely have no intention to make such a move. Hardy is getting a new trial and could be acquitted by a jury, but that event is far in the future. Goodell will not let this issue sit until the season starts.