The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... With the hearing officer assigned to the appeal of Gordon’s suspension facing an all-or-nothing mandate, the player and the league have extra incentive to try to control the outcome via a negotiated compromise. Per a source with knowledge of the situation, a “slight chance” of a resolution exists.

Diehards Line: According to PFT's Mike Florio, any deal presumably would entail a suspension for Gordon that lasts less than a year. Florio went on to explain that if one side is less inclined to negotiate than the other, it’s possible that the hearing officer will send signals that it would be wise for that party to be more open-minded. Which could get a deal done during the hearing or after it. ... Either way, a ruling is expected fairly soon. The substance-abuse policy requires only that the decision be issued with a “reasonable time.” Stay tuned.