The NFL announced Wednesday it has suspended Buffalo Bills defensive back Sam Franklin for one game without pay for spitting at a Las Vegas Raiders opponent during Sunday's game. The league determined Franklin violated sportsmanship rules by spitting at an opponent following the Raiders' successful extra-point attempt with 1:32 remaining in Buffalo's 33-30 win at Las Vegas.
Franklin denies the allegation and intends to appeal the suspension, according to a person with knowledge of the discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Franklin was not initially penalized during the game and there was no video immediately available showing the incident.
The suspension makes Franklin the second Bills player disciplined for spitting in the same game. Starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was ejected and suspended one game without pay for spitting in the direction of Raiders players during the second quarter, an action captured by TV cameras. Following the game, Gardner-Johnson apologized to his teammates and told reporters, "I'll take my consequences," while adding that he has to be better at controlling his emotions.
Under the collective bargaining agreement, appeals will be heard by one of four jointly appointed individuals: former players Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson and James Thrash, or former coach Ron Rivera. With Buffalo (5-1) entering its bye weekend, the suspensions are scheduled to begin Oct. 26 and run through Nov. 2, a day after the Bills host the Baltimore Ravens.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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