CLEVELAND — The appeal process was not very good to the Cleveland Browns this week.
A day after defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi learned that he lost his appeal and will serve a one-game ban during this week’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the Browns were informed star defensive end Myles Garrett had his indefinite suspension upheld, and after sitting out the balance of the 2019 season will have to apply for reinstatement next season.
Garrett was suspended indefinitely just 12 hours after last Thursday’s 21-7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers for an on-field brawl that resulted in his ejection, as well as the disqualifications of Ogunjobi and Steelers offensive lineman Maurkice Pouncey.
Fan reaction to Garrett’s punishments being upheld was swift on social media, and many of the comments were “not safe for work” viewing.
The suspension was upheld despite Garrett saying Rudolph used a racial slur when the two were scuffling on the field.
If something was said, with as many microphones and cameras that are on the sidelines for NFL games, a review of the tapes and recordings of the game would prove or disprove his claim against Rudolph.
The incident boiled over when Garrett brought Rudolph to the ground well after a third-down play with eight seconds remaining in the game.
After the hit, Rudolph appeared to rip off Garrett’s helmet after delivering a couple of kicks below the belt of the Pro Bowl defensive end. Garrett responded by ripping off Rudolph’s helmet with several powerful tugs, and later, swinging it at and connecting to the quarterback’s head when the signal-caller pursued the matter further.
After Garrett ended up on the ground after getting tangled up with Steelers offensive lineman David DeCastro, Pouncey tried to protect his quarterback and delivered several kicks to the helmet and multiple punches to the Browns’ Pro Bowl defensive end.
Some, mostly admitted Steelers fans, felt Garrett deserved the punishment he received, despite the allegations against Rudolph, but those within the Browns’ locker room supported their Pro Bowl pass rusher.
“I am sure that Myles presented himself professionally, like he has done ever since the moment it happened,” Browns coach Freddie Kitchens said. “He has been nothing but professional in his responses. I can’t really comment on the arbitrator’s decision…I stand by Myles, and that is not going to waver.”
Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. added, “Since I’ve met Myles, he’s a very straightforward and honest person. He is what he appears to be. We all support Myles over here and just praying there’s a resolution for what’s going on.”