The one-game suspension levied on Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety on Monday was overturned by appeal on Wednesday. Goldson may return to the team immediately; he will practice on Wednesday and play on Sunday against the New England Patriots.
It's likely that a similar situation regarding former Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed last year was considered in the decision on Goldson's appeal. Reed was also suspended for one game for a repeat violation of player safety rules but had that suspension erased on appear by mediator Ted Cottrell. Reed was issued a fine for the violation.
Goldson joined the Buccaneers as a high-priority free agent signing this past March after six seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. A Pro Bowl selection in both 2011 and 2012, Goldson also won Associated Press first-team All-Pro honors last season and was considered one of the top defensive players available on the free agency market. After ranking 32nd in the NFL in pass defense in 2012, the Buccaneers began a dramatic reshaping of their secondary with the signing of Goldson, later trading for All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis and drafting award-winning Mississippi State cornerback Johnthan Banks in the second round.
Through two games, Goldson ranks second on the team with 16 tackles, including one for a loss, and also has a pass defensed. Tampa Bay's defense is tied for 13th in the NFL and, despite the team's 0-2 record, has allowed the eighth-fewest points in the league.
