Judge says he'll stay suspensions if Vikes appeal

A Minnesota judge says he will keep the suspensions of two Minnesota Vikings on hold if they follow through on their plan to appeal the punishment for violating the NFL's anti-drug policy.

Judge Gary Larson said Friday that it was premature for the players to seek a stay before filing their appeal.

Earlier this month, Larson ruled the NFL could suspend the Kevin and Pat Williams. The NFL tried to suspend the two defensive linemen back in 2008 after they tested positive for a banned diuretic that can mask steroids. The Williamses haven't been accused of taking steroids.

The case sparked a fight over labor issues that's still playing out in state and federal courts.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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