Ndamukong Suh suspended

Ndamukong Suh suspended following stomp

Ndamukong Suh has been suspended for two games by the NFL.

USA Today reports that Suh was suspended after he stomped on Evan Dietrich-Smith during Thanksgiving Day’s game between the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers. Suh also shoved Dietrich-Smith’s head into the turf.

The NFL released a statement regarding Suh’s suspension.

NFL Vice President of Football Operations Merton Hanks notified Ndamukong Suh today that he has been suspended without pay for the Lions’ next two games for his unsportsmanlike conduct in the Lions-Packers game on Thanksgiving Day.

It was Suh’s fifth violation of on-field rules in the past two seasons that has resulted in league discipline. Suh may not practice or be at the team practice facility for any other activities during the two-game suspension. He will be reinstated on December 12. Under the CBA, the suspension may be appealed within three business days. If appealed, an expedited hearing and decision would take place this week in advance of this weekend’s games.

Suh shelled out a total of $42,500 for three previous fines. Thanks to this suspension, Suh will now miss out on at least another $164,000 in missed game checks and the Lions may tack on an additional $25,000 penalty.

Suh released a statement apoligizing for his actions.

I have had time to reflect on yesterday’s game and I want to sincerely apologize for letting my teammates down, the organization, and especially to my fans who look to me for positive inspiration.

Playing professional sports is not a game. It is a profession with great responsibility, and where performance on and off the field should never be compromised. It requires a calm and determined demeanor, which cannot be derailed by the game, referee calls, fans or other players.

I want to reiterate my commitment to working to become a better player, and professional — on and off the field. My reaction on Thursday was unacceptable. I made a mistake, and have learned from it. I hope to direct the focus back to the task at hand — by winning.

Read more about Ndamukong Suh here.