Buffalo Bills DL Marcell Dareus has been suspended one game for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.
- Brian McIntyre notes that this suspension will cost Dareus $474,118 in base salary.
Dareus has released a statement regarding the matter:
“Last year, I made a mistake involving possession of a banned substance. I apologize to family, teammates, Bills organization and Bills fans that I will miss one game as result of my mistake. I will work intensely that week and will be extremely happy to contribute to a win in week two for the Bills.”
This is unfortunately news given that there has been talk that the Bills could sign him to a long-term extension. However, it’s unlikely that they would prevent the Bills from trying to keep one of their best players, even though off-the-field concerns could factor into contract talks.
The Bills decided to pick up his fifth-year option, which will pay him a salary of $8.06 million for the 2015 season.
Dareus, 25, is a former No. 3 overall pick and would be among the most sought-after players in next year’s free agent market if the two sides don’t have an agreement in place before then.
Last year, Dareus appeared in 15 games and recorded 49 total tackles, one forced fumble, and a career high of nine sacks. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 4 defensive tackle out of 81 qualifying players.
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