The NFL announced on Wednesday that Buffalo Bills defensive back Sam Franklin has received a one-game unpaid suspension for spitting at a Las Vegas Raiders opponent. This incident marks the second suspension for the team stemming from a heated confrontation during last weekend's game.

Franklin, who denies the allegation, plans to appeal the suspension. According to a source speaking anonymously, the league determined that Franklin violated a sportsmanship rule after he spat at an opponent following a Raiders extra point with 1:32 remaining in Buffalo’s 33-30 victory on October 22.

This suspension follows that of starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was also handed a one-game suspension for spitting toward Raiders players during the second quarter. Gardner-Johnson was ejected from the game, which was broadcasted on television. He later expressed remorse, stating, "I'll take my consequences" and emphasizing the need to manage his emotions better.

In his Instagram apology, Gardner-Johnson acknowledged, "There is no excuse for my actions, and I take full accountability. I hope to represent myself in a better light in the future."

Franklin's actions went unpunished on the field, and no video evidence has surfaced thus far. According to the collective bargaining agreement, appeals will be reviewed by jointly appointed officers from the NFL and NFLPA, including former players and coaches.

With Buffalo (5-1) on a bye week, both suspensions are set to run from October 26 to November 2, concluding just before the Bills face off against the Baltimore Ravens. Franklin retains the right to appeal the decision, but neither he nor coach Joe Brady was available for comment.