NFL Makes Final Decision on Bills’ C. J. Gardner-Johnson Suspension After Spitting Incident

The NFL has upheld a one-game suspension for Buffalo Bills defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson following an appeal. Jointly appointed hearing officer Jordy Nelson affirmed the ban, which was originally issued after Gardner-Johnson was ejected for spitting toward Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers. With the Bills on a Week 7 bye, Gardner-Johnson will serve his suspension during Buffalo's Week 8 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

The spitting penalty gave the Raiders prime field position to score a game-tying field goal before halftime. Following the game, Bills head coach Joe Brady called Gardner-Johnson's behavior inexcusable and against team standards. Gardner-Johnson, who joined Buffalo on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million during the offseason, will now miss the upcoming road game against Baltimore.