By: Clifton Brown Sporting News

The New Orleans Saints’ bounty scandal took an intriguing twist Friday, when NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announced he had stepped aside from overseeing the appeals process.

Former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue
[AP File Photo]

Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue will replace Goodell as the hearing officer when the appeals of four players are heard on Oct. 30.

— Jimmy Kennedy: Goodell is a liar

Goodell issued a statement Friday explaining his decision:

“I have held two hearings to date and have modified the discipline in several respects based on my recent meetings with the players,” Goodell said. To bring this matter to a prompt and fair conclusion I have appointed former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue to serve as the hearing officer for the upcoming appeals. Paul Tagliabue is a genuine football authority whose tenure as commissioner was marked by his thorough and judicious approach to all matters. He has many years of experience in NFL collective bargaining matters and an impeccable reputation for integrity. Read more;