John Jastremski and Jim McNally, the two New England Patriots staffers whose names were suddenly everywhere because of their alleged role in the Deflategate scandal, have been reinstated by the NFL. However, they will have different roles.
“Last week, the New England Patriots requested the reinstatement of both John Jastremski and Jim McNally. The Patriots have satisfied the league's requirements for reinstatement and the league has granted permission for the employees to return,” the NFL said in a statement.
As Fox Sports notes, Jastremski was previously an equipment assistant, while McNally was a locker room attendant. The Boston Globe confirmed that they will have different jobs. NFL Media reported that Jastremski can’t handle footballs and McNally can’t be in locker rooms or handle equipment.
The Patriots suspended the two staffers in May after they were named in Ted Wells’ report because of their communication with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. After the report, the Patriots lost two draft picks and were fined $1 million. Brady was suspended for four games, although that suspension was overturned earlier this month.
The Patriots beat the Steelers last week in their season opener and play the Bills in Buffalo on Sunday.
image of Tom Brady courtesy of Elder Ordonez/INFphoto.com