Sports · October 23, 2026
Bills' Franklin wins appeal, suspension for spitting reduced to fine
Buffalo Bills safety and special teams captain Sam Franklin Jr. has successfully appealed a one-game suspension originally issued for allegedly spitting at an opponent during a game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The NFL has reduced the disciplinary action to a fine, ensuring Franklin will be available for the team's next game following their bye week.
Read the original coverage
- ESPNSports network
Bills' Franklin wins appeal, suspension for spitting reduced to fine
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NFL has made its decision on Sam Franklin Jr.’s appeal of one-game suspension
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Bills S Sam Franklin's suspension for spitting is reduced to a fine after appeal
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Reported by multiple outlets
- Buffalo Bills safety Sam Franklin Jr. won his appeal of a one-game suspension.
- The suspension was initially issued for allegedly spitting at a member of the Las Vegas Raiders.
- The one-game suspension has been reduced to a fine.
- The incident occurred during a Week 6 game against the Raiders.
Reported by only some outlets
- Sam Franklin Jr. is the Bills' special teams captain.
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s one-game suspension for a similar spitting incident was upheld by the league the day prior.
- The Bills are currently on a bye week.
Confirmed
- Sam Franklin Jr.'s one-game suspension was overturned on appeal.
- The suspension was reduced to a fine.
- The incident involved a Week 6 game against the Raiders.
Reported
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson's suspension for spitting was upheld the previous day. (Yahoo Sports)
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