NFL
Sam Franklin Jr. Gets One-Game Ban; Denies Spitting Allegation
The Bills defensive back intends to appeal, according to AP reporting. The suspension would cover Buffalo’s November 1 game against Baltimore.
Buffalo defensive back Sam Franklin Jr. received a one-game suspension without pay Wednesday after the NFL accused him of spitting at a Las Vegas Raiders opponent. He denies the allegation and intends to appeal, The Associated Press reported, citing a person familiar with the discussions.
The league’s announcement concerns an incident after a successful Raiders extra point with 1:32 remaining in the fourth quarter of Buffalo’s 33–30 win on October 18. The NFL said the conduct violated its sportsmanship rule.
The suspension is set to begin October 26, after Buffalo’s bye, and would keep Franklin out against Baltimore on November 1 unless changed through an appeal. He would be eligible to return to the active roster November 2.
WGR reporter Sal Capaccio also reported Franklin’s denial and appeal plans, citing a league source. The league permits an appeal under the collective bargaining agreement; no appeal decision was announced in the reports.
Franklin is the second Bills player disciplined for alleged spitting in that game. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson received a separate one-game suspension earlier this week.
