No evidence Rudolph used racial
slur in fight with Garrett, says league
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[November 22, 2019]
(Reuters) - The NFL said on
Thursday it found no evidence to support allegations that Pittsburgh
Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph used a racial slur against
Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett prior to their fight
during last week's game.
Garrett was ejected in the closing seconds of the game in Cleveland
after ripping Rudolph's helmet off and striking him on the head with
it.
Hit with an indefinite suspension, Garrett will miss the rest of the
regular season and any playoff games and must meet with the
commissioner's office before a decision on his reinstatement will be
taken.
The suspension was upheld on Thursday.
The NFL has fined Rudolph for his role in the fight.
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ESPN reported that during Garrett's appeal hearing on Wednesday in
New York he alleged that Rudolph used a slur but the NFL said on its
website that it had found no evidence to substantiate the
allegation.
The Steelers issued a statement saying their quarterback denied the
allegation.
"Mason vehemently denies the report of being accused of using a
racial slur during the incident Thursday night in Cleveland," the
Steelers said.
Garrett said on Twitter: "I know what I heard.
"I was assured that the hearing was space that afforded the
opportunity to speak openly and honestly about the incident that led
to my suspension," he tweeted.
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![](../images/112219PIX/sports35.jpg)
Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) throws the ball against the
Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
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"This was not meant for public dissemination, nor was it a
convenient attempt to justify my actions or restore my image in the
eyes of those I disappointed. "Whether my opponent's comment was
born out of frustration or ignorance, I cannot say. But his actions
do not excuse my lack of restraint in the moment, and I truly regret
the impact this has had on the league, the Browns and our devoted
fans."
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Peter
Rutherford)
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