NFL suspends 2nd Bills player for spitting, though Sam Franklin denies allegation and plans appeal

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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