Buffalo Bills’ linebacker Von Miller has been handed a four-game suspension without pay by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. According to ESPN, this decision follows allegations that Miller had assaulted his pregnant girlfriend during an argument last year in November.
Although the 35-year-old has consistently denied the allegations, labeling them as “100 percent false,” the NFL still proceeded to carry out its own investigation which led to this disciplinary action. ESPN reports that the incident in question occurred during the Bills’ bye week in suburban Dallas. Miller turned himself in to the Glenn Heights Police Department on the same month the assault was reported after an arrest warrant was issued.
According to an affidavit, during the couple’s argument in an apartment where they both lived, Von Miller allegedly put his hands on his partner’s neck, pulled her hair, and also attempted to shove her. The police report documented “minor abrasions” and bruising on the woman.
The Guardian reported that initially, Miller was wanted for third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman, but he was never charged. He was later released on a $5000 bond, and according to Miller, the case seems to have been closed since July of this year.
Von Miller’s suspension means that he will not be joining the Bills in their games against the Houston Texans, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, and Seattle Seahawks. He will be eligible to return after the Bills’ Week 8 game against the Seahawks in late October.
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, stated earlier this year that there was consideration to place Miller on the commissioner’s exempt list, which would have made him ineligible to play while the investigation was ongoing. However, this was deemed unnecessary based on the evidence available at the time.
Miller is a seasoned veteran with a decorated career, including eight Pro Bowl selections, seven All-Pro honors, and two Super Bowl championships. Just this season alone, he has recorded three sacks in the first four games.