The NFL has suspended Minnesota Vikings fullback Jerome Felton for three games for a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy.
According to a source, the fullback’s suspension was handed down because of his DUI arrest in 2012. After going to court, Felton’s charge was later reduced to reckless driving. He quickly apologized to the organization for his mistake.
Felton will be eligible to return on Sept. 23, the day after the Vikings’ Week 3 game.
“We respect the league’s decision and Jerome understands it,” Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said in a statement. “Jerome is focused on returning to the playing field in week four vs. Pittsburgh.”
Felton, signed a three-year, $7.5 million contract with the Vikings in March. He orginally joined the team in 2012 and has helped block during league MVP Adrian Peterson’s 2,000-yard season last year. The fullback’s base salary is structured so that he receives most of his money in the latter part. He will only make $850,000 this season, so this three-game ban will cost him only $150,000.
