Denver Broncos linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been suspended for one game by the National Football League. This punishment follows after he directed an unsportsmanlike conduct at an official. The league announced the suspension on Monday, following Greenlaw’s participation in a game against the New York Giants on Sunday.
The incident occurred as Greenlaw “chased after referee Brad Allen and verbally threatened him as he tried to leave the field,” according to the NFL’s statement. This behavior violates the league’s rules, which prohibit “the use of abusive, threatening or insulting language or gestures to opponents, teammates, officials, or representatives of the League” (Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1(b)).
As part of the suspension Greenlaw will forfeit one game check worth $192,778. This crushing monetary blow comes just months after he signed a three-year, $31.5 million deal with the Broncos in March. He debuted with the team in last week’s matchup versus the Giants. He had already missed the entire preseason and the first half-dozen games of the regular season due to thigh injuries.
Greenlaw has proven to be one of the league’s most effective off-ball linebackers. In fact, he’s recorded 80-plus tackles in four different campaigns. During his time in the league, he picked up 14 career passes defensed as well. Prior to coming to the Broncos, Greenlaw played six seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. While he was there, he became known for his incredible defensive prowess.
Despite the defeat, Greenlaw still has three days to file an appeal of his suspension under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. His return to the field after the suspension depends entirely on his choice. Should he decide to appeal the judgment, that will be the crucial test.
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