The NFL announced on Tuesday afternoon that San Francisco 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster has been suspended for the first two games of the 2018 NFL season. The suspension comes as a result of his weapon charge and misdemeanor drug charge. Foster will be allowed to practice with the team during training camp and participate in preseason games. He must then sit out the first two games of the regular season.
Foster was arrested in Alabama in January for marijuana possession. The charge was later removed from his record after he took part in a first-time offender program. Foster was then arrested in February and charged with felony domestic violence, making criminal threats, and felony weapon possession. The domestic violence and criminal threats charges were dropped after the accuser recanted under oath. The gun was found when the police arrested Foster. The charge was reduced to a misdemeanor, and he pled no contest on that charge. For the latter charge, he received two years probation, will not be allowed to possess firearms or ammunition during that period, and must fulfill a 30-day work sentence with community service.
Here are statements from the NFL, Foster, and the 49ers.
Statement by an NFL Spokesperson:
Reuben Foster of the San Francisco 49ers has been fined and suspended without pay for the first two games of the 2018 regular season for violating the NFL’s Conduct and Substances of Abuse policies. The violations stem from a weapons offense and a misdemeanor drug offense, both of which were resolved earlier this year.
Foster will be eligible to return to the 49ers’ active roster on Monday, September 17, following the team’s September 16 game against the Detroit Lions.
Foster is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games.
San Francisco 49ers LB Reuben Foster:
“I accept the League’s decision and am sorry that my mistakes have hurt my team. I have a responsibility to the 49ers, our fans and our community, and I am committed to learning from this situation and making better choices in the future. The support I have received over the last five months has been humbling, and I do not take it for granted.”
San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch:
“Our organization understands and supports the League’s decision. Although we are disappointed that Reuben will not be with our team for the first two games of the season, we will continue to work with him on making better decisions and eliminating unnecessary distractions. We are encouraged to see Reuben take responsibility for his mistakes, and hopeful that he has learned from them as well.”