The New Orleans Saints - including Sean Payton, Mickey Loomis and Joe Vitt - have all lost their appeal to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell regarding the discipline meted out for their participation in Bountygate and the penalties will upheld.

As expected.

There is a possibility that financial penalties could be reduced and the team could get their 2013 second-round draft pick back:

If they embrace the opportunity and participate in a constructive way, Commissioner Goodell said he would consider mitigating the financial penalties on the individuals. In the case of the team, the commissioner would consider whether there are factors that would support modifying the forfeiture of the team's 2013 second-round draft choice.

Sean Payton's one year suspension will now officially begin April 16th. The suspensions for Mickey Loomis and Joe Vitt will begin at the end of the 2012 preseason. After serving their suspensions, Commissioner Goodell will review each of the status of each individual to determine their eligibility for reinstatement into the league.