NFL suspends Sam Franklin one game; Bills captain denies allegation

The NFL suspended Bills defensive back Sam Franklin Jr. for one game without pay Wednesday, saying he spit toward an opponent during Sunday's win over the Raiders. Franklin denies the allegation and will appeal, according to WGR's Sal Capaccio.

The league said the incident occurred after a Las Vegas extra point with 1:32 remaining in the fourth quarter. Buffalo won the game 33-30. Franklin's discipline comes after the NFL gave fellow Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson a separate one-game suspension for spitting toward a Raiders player earlier in the same game.

Appeal could determine his availability against Baltimore

Buffalo has a bye in Week 7. As announced, Franklin's suspension begins October 26, and he is eligible to return to the active roster November 2. That would keep him out of the November 1 game against Baltimore if the punishment stands.

Capaccio described Franklin as a core special teams player and captain. Citing a league source, he reported that Franklin strongly disputes the accusation and plans to challenge the ban. Capaccio also posted two All-22 views of the confrontation and repeated Franklin's denial.

The NFL cited its rule against conduct contrary to accepted standards of sportsmanship. Spectrum News reported the October 26 start and November 2 return dates in its account of the discipline.

Franklin and Gardner-Johnson are scheduled to serve their suspensions during the same game. An appeal ruling could change Franklin's availability, and the reporting available Wednesday did not include a decision.

Sources

• NFL communications: Sam Franklin suspended one game
• Sal Capaccio: Franklin denies allegation and is appealing
• WGR: Suspension, denial and appeal report
• Spectrum News: Suspension dates