On Sunday, Buffalo Bills WR CJ Gardner-Johnson was ejected after spitting at Las Vegas Raiders TE Brock Bowers. As a result, Gardner-Johnson received a 1-game suspension.
On Monday, Bills head coach Joe Brady pulled no punches in calling out Gardner-Johnson for his actions, per WGR 550.
“That can't happen on the football field,” Brady said. “We want to toe the line, but we can't cross the line”
The incident occurred with 14 seconds remaining in the 1st half. NFL referee Tra Blake witnessed the incident and issued Gardner-Johnson an automatic ejection under NFL rules. Afterward, the Raiders completed the 1st half with a game-tying field goal. Despite Gardner-Johnson's mistake, the Bills won the game 33-30.
After the game, Gardner-Johnson apologized on Instagram.
I want to take a moment to address my actions and sincerely apologize to my opponent, my teammates, my organization, and everyone who supports me,” Gardner-Johnson wrote. “The gesture I made toward my opponent was inappropriate, unnecessary, and not a reflection of the respect I have for him or this game. There is no excuse for my actions.”
Article Continues BelowThe Bills have a bye in Week 7. As a result, Gardner-Johnson will miss Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens on November 1. After that, he can return for the Bills' Week 9 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
Overall, Gardner-Johnson has played in all 6 games, recording 17 solo tackles, 17 total tackles, 9 assisted tackles, and 1 interception against the Los Angeles Chargers on September 27.
In March, Gardner-Johnson signed a $6 million contract with the Bills. He is in his 6th NFL season.