The NFL has suspended Buffalo Bills edge rusher Von Miller for four games due to a violation of the league’s personal conduct policy. The league has not disclosed specific details regarding the reason for the suspension, which comes as the Bills prepare for their game against the Houston Texans this Sunday. Miller, who currently leads active players in career sacks, will be eligible to return just in time for the team’s home game against Miami on November 3.
The suspension follows allegations made against Miller last November, accusing him of assaulting his pregnant girlfriend at their residence near Dallas during the Bills’ bye week. After these allegations surfaced, Miller surrendered to authorities and faced accusations of third-degree felony assault, which could result in a prison sentence of two to ten years along with a $10,000 fine. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, no formal charges have been filed. Miller indicated in July that he believed the matter was settled based on his legal counsel’s advice.
Miller stated, “My life is all about football right now and my kids,” emphasizing his commitment to being a dedicated teammate and athlete.
The 35-year-old player has recorded three sacks in the first four games of the current season. Last year, he did not register a sack in 14 games, including the playoffs, as he was recovering from a significant knee injury. Miller’s career total stands at 126.5 sacks, placing him 17th on the all-time list alongside Derrick Thomas.
In previous remarks regarding the allegations, Miller has claimed that they are false and exaggerated, acknowledging a disagreement with his girlfriend but downplaying the incident’s severity compared to what was alleged.
A police affidavit described an incident in which Miller reportedly put his hands on his girlfriend’s neck, pulled her hair, and threw her onto a couch, resulting in her sustaining minor injuries. It was reported that Miller exhibited visible anger during the altercation, which escalated when his girlfriend attempted to leave the room.
The Bills have addressed Miller’s absence by signing defensive tackle Zion Logue from the Atlanta Falcons’ practice squad. Logue, a sixth-round draft pick, played college football at Georgia.