Browns LB Scott Fujita Suspended Three Games for Role in Bounty Program
It certainly could have been worse (just ask Jonathan Vilma), but it’s no less disappointing for Cleveland Browns linebacker Scott Fujita, as he has been suspended three games for his role in the bounty program that took place when he was a member of the New Orleans Saints.
In addition to Fujita, former teammates Vilma (the entire season), Anthony Hargrove (eight games), and Will Smith (four games) were given suspensions. All players involved have three days to appeal the league’s ruling. While there has been no statement from Fujita or the Browns, it seems likely that the suspension will be appealed.
There appears to be no evidence that Fujita actually physically paid anybody, but he did contribute to the pool that rewarded Saints teammates for “cart-offs” and “knockouts,” which were obviously plays that injured opponents.
If the suspension holds up, Fujita will at least be able to attend OTAs and is allowed to play in the preseason. The suspension will also cost him about $644,000, or 3/17 of his $3.65 million salary.