What It Means:

The NFL had access to this evidence before suspending Hardy in April. Sources said, however, that Cowboys officials were not allowed to view the photos, several of which were under a protective order. These same sources stress the Cowboys were aware of the photos and had an understanding of what they showed. Hardy was suspended for 10 games by the NFL but appealed and had it reduced to four games. No additional disciplinary action is expected, but this casts Hardy's future with Dallas into doubt.

The Cowboys' defense ranked 21st in Adjusted Defensive Net Expected Points per play through Week 4. They rank 16th in that metric through Week 8.