List of suspensions in the NFL

The List of suspensions in the National Football League (NFL) encompasses the instances where players have been suspended for actions that violated the league's personal conduct policy, performance-enhancing drugs policy, or substance abuse policy. This list includes notable suspensions that have had significant impacts on teams, players, and the league's reputation.

Background

The NFL has established several policies to maintain the integrity of the league and ensure the behavior of its players aligns with the league's standards. The most prominent policies related to suspensions include the NFL Personal Conduct Policy, the NFL Performance-Enhancing Drugs Policy, and the NFL Substance Abuse Policy. These policies are enforced by the NFL Commissioner's office, currently headed by Roger Goodell.

Notable Suspensions

Performance-Enhancing Drugs

• Tom Brady - In 2015, Brady was suspended for four games due to his alleged involvement in the "Deflategate" scandal, where footballs were intentionally deflated in the 2014 AFC Championship Game.

• Julian Edelman - Suspended for four games in 2018 for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Substance Abuse

• Josh Gordon - Gordon has faced multiple suspensions since 2013 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. His suspensions have totaled over 50 games.

• Martavis Bryant - Suspended multiple times for substance abuse issues, including a year-long suspension in 2016.

Personal Conduct

• Ray Rice - Initially suspended for two games in 2014 after a domestic violence incident, the suspension was later extended indefinitely after public backlash and additional video evidence.

• Adrian Peterson - Suspended for the remainder of the 2014 season after charges of child abuse surfaced.

• Ben Roethlisberger - Suspended for six games in 2010 (later reduced to four) for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy following accusations of sexual assault.

Impact on Teams and Players

Suspensions can significantly impact team performance, player careers, and the league's public image. Teams may lose key players during critical parts of the season, affecting their playoff chances and overall success. For players, suspensions can tarnish reputations, reduce career longevity, and impact financial earnings.

Controversies and Criticisms

The NFL's handling of suspensions has often been a subject of controversy. Critics argue that the league's policies are not consistently applied and that the severity of punishments can vary widely. The transparency and fairness of the disciplinary process have also been questioned.

See Also

• List of people banned from Major League Baseball
• NBA suspensions and fines