This might be a better article. It draws a clear line between being on the exempt list ("exempt" by the way means specifically exempt from a team's roster limit) and being suspended.
https://nypost.com/2020/05/15/deandr...s-exempt-list/
Quote:
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A team cannot put a player on the Exempt List — only the commissioner can do it. A player on the Exempt List receives his full salary and cannot attend games or practices but is allowed at the team facility, if the team permits it. Usually, a player on the Exempt List stays away.
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Quote:
At some point, if Baker’s legal troubles prevent him from playing, the Giants have avenues to recoup money. If Baker is suspended by the NFL, the Giants should be able to get out of the remaining guaranteed money on his contract (about $3 million) if Baker enters a guilty plea, according to an agent who has negotiated multiple contracts with the Giants.
The Giants might also be able to get back some of the signing bonus already paid to Baker.
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The exempt list is essentially an air gap in the system between active players who aren't in trouble and suspended players, who are in trouble. It can be used for players who MIGHT be in trouble, allowing the team to get another warm body in there without condemning the player before everything plays out.