Earlier this week the NFL issued one-game suspensions for two Buffalo Bills defensive backs for their conduct during a Week 6 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.
CJ Gardner-Johnson and Sam Franklin Jr both received suspensions for allegedly spitting at opponents during the game. Gardner-Johnson’s suspension was upheld by the league, which isn’t a surprise given there was video evidence of the incident.
Franklin’s suspension, however, was overturned by hearing officer James Thrash, who is jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFLPA. NFL senior vice president of football and international communications Michael Signora revealed the suspension was overturned, but Franklin was still hit with a $14,926 fine.
Sam Franklin Jr’s Agents Issue Statement
Following the announcement from the league, Franklin’s agents issued a statement.
“As we said from the start, Sam did not and would never spit at an opponent, and there was no evidence that he did. We’re glad the suspension was overturned and grateful to the hearing officer for a fair and thorough review,” his agents said in a statement.
“It’s unfortunate the league suspended Sam in the first place based on an unsupported accusation that received so much undeserved attention, and we hope the outcome is covered just as widely.”
They suggested the league take a “serious look” into the incident after claiming Franklin was struck in the groin twice during the encounter.
Buffalo will be without Gardner-Johnson for Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, but Franklin will now be available.
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