NFL Will Hear AP’s Appeal on Dec. 2

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Adrian Peterson's hearing for the appeal of his suspension will be held on Dec. 2. And it will not be in front of NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

The NFL announced Friday that longtime hearing officer Harold Henderson will preside over the proceedings. Goodell has the authority to decide whether to hear the appeal himself or appoint someone else.

Henderson worked for the league as chairman of its powerful Management Council's executive committee for 16 years. He also was a league vice president of labor relations.

Goodell suspended the Minnesota Vikings star running back for the rest of the season earlier this week after Peterson pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless assault for injuring his 4-year-old son with a wooden switch.

Goodell told Peterson he will not be considered for reinstatement before April 15 for his violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy.