Sam Franklin Wins Appeal Over Spitting Suspension

Fine replaces one game ban

Buffalo Bills safety Sam Franklin Jr. has successfully appealed his one game NFL suspension. The league originally handed down the ban without pay after alleging he spat at a Las Vegas Raiders player during a fourth quarter extra point attempt in Week 6.

Instead of sitting out, the special teams captain will pay a fine of $14,926. Franklin denied the claim right away on social media. He stated that he will always do what it takes to defend himself, but he would never spit at an opponent. No public replays of the play clearly show him spitting, and officials did not penalize or eject him during the game.

Contrasting outcomes for Buffalo defenders

Franklin is currently in his second year with Buffalo and his seventh season in the league. He has recorded six tackles in 2026, with all of them coming on special teams. Three of those tackles came in the victory over Las Vegas, matching his highest single game total since signing with Buffalo.

His situation turned out differently from fellow safety C.J. Gardner Johnson. Referees disqualified Gardner Johnson just before halftime of that same game after witnessing him spit in the direction of Raiders tight end Brock Bowers. Gardner Johnson also appealed his suspension, but the league upheld his punishment. He will be eligible to return on Nov. 9 when Buffalo plays the Minnesota Vikings.

Bye week before facing Baltimore

The Bills are on a bye this week, which gives the squad time to rest before returning to the field. Their next contest takes place on Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. ET against the Baltimore Ravens.

What it means for the next game

Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Buffalo Bills win 54%, Baltimore Ravens win 46%; projected score Buffalo Bills 27, Baltimore Ravens 25. Our safest pick: Ravens +10.