The NFL is appealing the decision made by US district judge Richard Berman to nullify New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's four-game suspension over deflategate.

The judge cited three points in his ruling, stating that no notice of discipline, no testimony from NFL general council Jeff Pash and no access to the files of the Ted Wells Report led to him negating the ban.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement: "We are grateful to Judge Berman for hearing this matter, but respectfully disagree with today's decision.

"We will appeal today's ruling in order to uphold the collectively bargained responsibility to protect the integrity of the game."

Despite the appeal, Tom Brady will be available to play in the Patriots' season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers next week.