The NFL and the Patriot's were doing right by him. They were treating him like he was "innocent until proven guilty." They were investigating the charges against him. He messed up when he sent a threatening e-mail to the 2nd accuser that included pictures of her kids. At that point, he dug his own grave.
I agree with the NFL, they can't just bench someone just because someone points a finger and says He______. These players make millions of dollars, they are ripe for the picking. I do believe the NFL has a high tolerance for allowing players to play after committing a crime,(and I mean after they've been found guilty and served their time, they are welcomed back) in the name of money. As long as we keep watching and/or buying tickets nothing will change.