Status of Kevin and Pat Williams to Be Determined Today?

Vikings defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams had their suspensions blocked on Wednesday by a Minnesota judge.  The judge issued a temporary restraining order against the NFL on behalf of the players in order to block their suspensions.  As of right now they are available for Sunday's game against the Lions, but that may change today.

Two separate actions regarding the playing status of the two Pro Bowl defensive tackles, who were suspended four games by the NFL on Tuesday for using a banned diuretic, are on the docket for a 10:30 a.m. hearing before U.S. District Court Judge Paul Magnuson.

The NFL seeks to dissolve a temporary restraining order obtained Wednesday by the Williamses that allows them to play.

The NFL Players Association joined in the action and filed a lawsuit to block the suspension of the Williamses and three other players. The union is hoping the judge issues an order allowing the five to play. The NFLPA lawsuit argues the players' careers are "short and precarious so that being denied the opportunity to play in games is an irreparable harm which cannot be compensated with monetary damages."

I obviously hope that the suspensions will be upheld, and I'm glad a decision will be made before the game on Sunday.  If they do end up missing the game, the Vikings' defensive line depth will be very thin, which is good news for the Lions.  Like I said earlier this week, it doesn't mean that the Lions will not avoid being blown out; it's just that anything to help Detroit's chances is a good thing.