Sam Franklin Jr. wins appeal, suspension reduced to fine

Hearing officer James Thrash, jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFLPA, has reduced the discipline of Sam Franklin from a one-game suspension to a fine of $14,926 for unsportsmanlike conduct.
— Michael Signora (@NFLfootballinfo) October 23, 2026

Statement from Bills DB Sam Franklin Jr.’s agents, Harold C. Lewis and Christian Addison, after appeals officer James Thrash reduced Franklin’s one-game suspension to a $14,926 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct: “As we said from the start, Sam did not and would never spit at an opponent, and there was no evidence that he did. We're glad the suspension was overturned and grateful to the hearing officer for a fair and thorough review. It's unfortunate the league suspended Sam in the first place based on an unsupported accusation that received so much undeserved attention, and we hope the outcome is covered just as widely. We also hope the league takes a serious look at the opposing player's conduct, including striking Sam in the groin twice during the game. We're glad this is behind him, so Sam can get back to focusing on his teammates and next Sunday.”
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 23, 2026