The NFL is just two nights away from the Seahawks and the Packers kicking off the 2014 season. The Indianapolis Colts will take on the Denver Broncos on Sunday night in Denver, but they will do so without their owner.
According to ESPN.com, Indianapolis Colts’ owner Jim Irsay has been suspended for six games by the NFL. Irsay was also fined $500,000 after pleading guilty to one misdemeanor count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
The NFL cited the suspension and the fine saying that Irsay violated the league’s personal conduct policy. Irsay admitted to a judge he was under the influence of the painkillers oxycodone and hydrocodone when he was arrested on March 16 near his home in Indianapolis.
I acknowledge the mistake I made last March and stand responsible for the consequences of that mistake, for which I sincerely apologize to our community and to Colts fans everywhere. Even more importantly, though, I am committed to do everything in my power to turn this whole experience into a positive event for myself, my family, and the community.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell decided to not take away any draft picks or any other competitive penalties against the Colts because Irsay’s conduct did not have competitive consequences.
The NFL has also banned Irsay from representing the Colts at any league-affiliated event, including league committee meetings. Irsay also cannot have any media interviews or participate on social media regarding any team or league matters.
Irsay will be on probation for a year and is prohibited from drinking or possessing alcohol during that time. His driver’s license also was suspended for one year.
Irsay’s suspension takes effect at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday. Irsay will be eligible to return after Indianapolis’ game against the Houston Texans on Oct. 9.
