NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has insisted that Robert Kraft's decision to accept the league's punishment will not affect Tom Brady's appeal.

The New England Patriots quarterback received a four-game suspension from the league for his part in the 'deflategate' controversy.

"The decision that Robert made was his decision. I admire and respect Robert. We've had plenty of discussions over the last couple of weeks, and this was his initiative and something he wanted to do," Goodell told reporters.

"I certainly admire the step he took. We may disagree on things but that's not unusual. It happens."

Goodell avoided questions about whether or not he would remove himself as arbitrator after a request from the NFL Players' Association.