The National Football League announced four player suspensions ahead of preseason action, with the penalties beginning on August 30. The suspensions were handed down for various violations of league policies and conduct rules.
Atlanta Falcons pass rusher James Pearce Jr. received the most significant punishment with an eight-game suspension without pay for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Pearce was arrested in February following an incident involving his then-girlfriend, where he pursued her vehicle and made contact with it before fleeing from police. He faced three felony charges initially but reached a pre-trial intervention agreement that would result in dismissal of charges upon completion of the program and six months without incident. Pearce is eligible for reinstatement on November 2. The suspension significantly impacts the Falcons’ defensive line, particularly given that fellow pass rusher Jalon Walker sustained a torn ACL during training camp. As a rookie, Pearce set a franchise record with 10.5 sacks and 26 tackles.
Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis received a three-game suspension for a substance abuse policy violation and is eligible to return on September 28. Mathis played six games for the Bills in the previous year and recently signed a one-year contract with the team. Tennessee Titans cornerback Nazeeh Johnson was suspended for six games due to a performance-enhancing substances violation, with reinstatement eligibility on October 19. Johnson joined Tennessee after four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Washington Commanders pass rusher Dorance Armstrong received a one-game suspension for a personal conduct policy violation related to a Texas arrest on misdemeanor assault and resisting arrest charges. Armstrong remains in recovery from an ACL injury sustained during the previous season.
Meanwhile, the league continues investigating situations involving Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, both of whom face legal matters but did not receive suspensions at that time.
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