Williams Wall finally to get trial

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The closely watched labor fight between the NFL and two members of the Minnesota Vikings who challenged their drug-related suspensions will go to trial next month.

A Minnesota judge ruled Thursday that a lawsuit over the NFL’s suspensions of Vikings defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams will go to trial March 8 to settle some employment issues, including whether the NFL, the Vikings — or both — are the players’ employer for purposes of drug testing.

In a 44-page ruling, Hennepin County District Judge Gary Larson issued many findings, some in favor of the Williamses, some in favor of the NFL. He said the NFL acted properly in many areas of its drug testing, but he also said if the NFL employs the players, even just partially, then the league has to follow Minnesota labor laws.

The Williamses argue the NFL is their employer, not the Vikings, and the NFL has the sole authority to test for drugs. Larson said that issue is unclear and will be decided at trial.

The Williamses — who are not related — were suspended for four games after testing positive in 2008 for the banned substance bumetanide, which can mask the presence of steroids. They are not accused of taking steroids.

Peter Ginsberg, an attorney for the Williamses, said his clients are pleased that state statutes would apply to the NFL.

Tags: sports, football, nfl, vikings, minnesota, williams, kevin, pat, trial