Bounty Gate Overturned

In a stunning development, players suspended for their roles in the Saints' 2009-2011 Bounty Scandal have had their bans overturned on appeal.

Perhaps the most notable suspension lifted is RE Will Smith's. The Saints' best pass rusher will be able to start Sunday against the Redskins. Browns SLB Scott Fujita and Saints MLB Jonathan Vilma, among others, are now eligible to play football. Vilma has been away from the Saints rehabbing from knee surgeries, so it's unclear how much time he'll need to get back into the swing of things. Smith's return will make life quite a bit more difficult on Redskins rookie Robert Griffin III. Coaches Sean Payton and Joe Vitt, and GM Mickey Loomis' suspensions will remain intact.