The NFL suspended Bills defensive back Sam Franklin for one game without pay after determining he spit at a Raiders player during Buffalo’s win in Las Vegas. Franklin denies the allegation and plans to appeal; video of the post-score scuffle does not clearly show him spitting.

By the Numbers
  • Buffalo beat Las Vegas 33-30.
  • The incident occurred with 1:32 remaining.
  • The one-game suspension is scheduled to run Oct. 26-Nov. 2.
  • The Bills are 5-1 and enter their bye week before hosting Baltimore.
Yes, But

The league concluded Franklin violated its sportsmanship rules, but Franklin disputes that finding, and the available video does not clearly establish that he spit at anyone. The suspension is subject to appeal.

State of Play
  • Franklin is the second Buffalo defensive back suspended for spitting at a Raiders opponent in the game.
  • Starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was also suspended for one game; he was ejected during the second quarter and apologized to teammates afterward.
  • Franklin’s appeal will be heard by an arbitrator jointly appointed by the NFL and NFL Players Association.
What's Next

If Franklin appeals, an arbitrator will review the suspension. The discipline is set to take effect after the Bills’ bye and extend through Nov. 2, the day after Buffalo hosts Baltimore.

Bottom Line

Franklin faces a one-game suspension based on the NFL’s finding, but the disputed allegation and unclear footage leave the appeal as a consequential next step.