Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl

The NFL upheld its discipline in the New Orleans Saints bounty case, meaning head coach Sean Payton will begin his year-long suspension April 16.

The league announced the penalties Monday, noting that the bans for general manager Mickey Loomis (eight games) and assistant coach Joe Vitt (six games) stand and will begin after the preseason.

The league said that if all parties cooperate with the rules of the punishment, commissioner Roger Goodell would consider lessening the financial penalties for the individuals.

Payton, Loomis and Vitt had an appeal hearing with the league on Thursday.

–ESPN