Packers' LB Barnett may play without pay
Published: Thursday, August 21, 2008 11:49 AM CDT
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Linebacker Nick Barnett nearly was suspended one game by the NFL for his involvement in an off-the-field altercation last year. But after appealing the punishment, Barnett will be fined a week's pay but is allowed to play in the Green Bay Packers' Sept. 8 season opener.
Barnett has talked himself into the idea that playing for free is better than not playing at all.
I believe so, Barnett said. I was talking to myself yesterday and thinking about the steep fine and how much it was, but the league has to do what it has to do in order to keep the NFL in the right direction. It sounds steep, and me personally, I don't have anything on my record anymore, but it's the personal conduct (policy) and you have to abide by it.
Barnett was arrested last June outside an Appleton, Wis., bar after a woman accused him of pushing her during an argument. He was charged with two misdemeanors, but reached a plea bargain in March that required him to remain on good behavior and pay a fine.
http://beloitdailynews.com/articles/2008/08/21/sports/local_sports/sports11.txt
Wisconsin Born, Packer Bred