Von Miller Receives Four-Game Suspension for NFL Conduct Violation

Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller has been suspended for four games without pay due to a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, the league announced on Tuesday. Miller will be eligible to return on October 28, following the Bills’ Week 8 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.

While the NFL did not provide specific details regarding the reason for the suspension, it is believed to be linked to an alleged domestic incident that occurred in Texas in late 2023. CNN has reached out to the NFL for further clarification on the matter, as well as to Miller’s agent and the Bills organization for comments.

The situation traces back to an arrest warrant affidavit filed by the Dallas Police Department, which accused Miller of assaulting his pregnant girlfriend. According to the affidavit, following a verbal altercation, Miller allegedly forced the woman to leave their shared apartment in Dallas. As she was packing her belongings, Miller reportedly approached her and began to shove her while insisting that she leave. The affidavit also claims that he applied pressure to her neck on two occasions, though she was able to breathe during these incidents. Following her indication that she would contact law enforcement, Miller left the apartment.

Police responded to the scene and noted visible injuries on the alleged victim, including minor abrasions on her left hand and bruising around her neck, consistent with the claimed pressure. Additionally, bruises were found on her abdomen and left arm.

Miller, a DeSoto, Texas native, was in his home state during the Bills’ bye week when the incident took place on November 29, 2023. He later surrendered to the Glenn Heights Police Department and was released on a $5,000 bond. Following the incident, Miller vehemently denied the allegations, stating they were “100% false” and “completely wrong and blown out of proportion.”

In the aftermath, a CNN affiliate, WFAA, was able to reach Miller’s girlfriend via text. She expressed her perspective, stating that the situation was “blown way out of context” and characterized it as a “huge misunderstanding.” She described the altercation as a mere “verbal disagreement.”

According to reports from the Associated Press, no criminal charges were filed against Miller. In July, he expressed a desire to put the incident behind him and focus solely on his football career.

Since the arrest, Miller has actively participated in the Bills’ games this season, playing in all four contests thus far. The two-time Super Bowl champion is regarded as one of the NFL’s most formidable pass rushers over the past decade and signed a lucrative six-year, $120 million contract with the Bills in 2022.

The suspension marks a significant moment in Miller’s career, raising questions about his future and impact on the team. As a veteran player, he has been a critical asset to the Bills, contributing both on and off the field. His return will be anticipated not just for his playing abilities but also to see how he navigates the fallout from this incident.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face regarding personal conduct and public scrutiny. As Miller prepares for his suspension, the focus will remain on how he handles this setback and what it means for the Buffalo Bills as they aim for success in the upcoming weeks.

The Bills, a team with high expectations this season, will need to adjust during Miller’s absence, relying on other players to fill the gap left by one of their star defenders. Meanwhile, Miller’s commitment to moving forward and focusing on football may serve as a crucial step in restoring his image and continuing his career in the league. As the October 28 date approaches, both fans and teammates will be watching closely.