10/21/2026 09:23:00
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10/21 09:17 CDT NFL suspends 2nd Bills player for spitting, though Sam Franklin
denies allegation and plans appeal
NFL suspends 2nd Bills player for spitting, though Sam Franklin denies
allegation and plans appeal
By JOHN WAWROW
AP Sports Writer
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) --- Buffalo Bills defensive back Sam Franklin became
the team's second player to be suspended by the NFL for one game without pay
for spitting at a Raiders opponent during a game last weekend, the league
announced Wednesday.
Franklin, however, denies the allegation and intends to appeal the suspension,
a person with knowledge of discussions told The Associated Press. The person
spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the discussions were to
remain private.
The NFL disciplined Franklin for violating its sportsmanship rules after
determining he spit at an opponent following the Raiders' successful
extra-point attempt with 1:32 remaining in Buffalo's 33-30 win at Las Vegas on
Sunday.
Franklin is a special teams ace and joins Bills starting safety C.J.
Gardner-Johnson in getting a one-game suspension for spitting in the direction
of Raiders players during the second quarter.
Gardner-Johnson was ejected for his action, which was captured by TV cameras
and replayed during the game broadcast. Following the game, Gardner-Johnson
apologized to his teammates. He also told reporters, "I'll take my
consequences," while adding that he has to be better at controlling his
emotions.
Franklin was not initially penalized and there was no video immediately
available to show what he did.
Under the collective bargaining agreement, appeals will be heard by one of four
people --- former players Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson and James Thrash, or
former coach Ron Rivera --- who were jointly appointed by the NFL and NFLPA.
With Buffalo (5-1) entering its bye weekend off, the suspensions will begin on
Oct. 26 and run through Nov. 2, a day after the Bills host the Baltimore
Ravens. Franklin has the right to appeal the suspension.
Franklin and Bills coach Joe Brady were not immediately made available to
reporters for comment.
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