Donte' Stallworth Suspended For 2009 Season
The Cleveland Browns Wide Receiver's Suspension Comes Without Pay
Commissioner Roger Goodell has suspended Cleveland Browns wide receiver Donte' Stallworth without pay for the entire 2009 season. This comes after he violated the league's personal conduct policy and substance abuse policy.
On the morning of March 14, Stallworth, who had a blood-alcohol level of .126, struck and killed Reyes while driving in Miami after partying at a South beach nightspot. Reyes was reportedly walking to the bus after working an all-night shift as a crane operator.
Stallworth's suspension just adds to the list of consequences he must face for the incident. Back in June, Goodell suspended Stallworth indefinitely for his actions on March 14. He was also sentenced to 30-day jail sentence, house arrest, and probation. He must also submit random drug and alcohol test, along with being prohibited to drive from midnight to 6 a.m.
It's still up in the air whether or not Stallworth will be allowed to return to the NFL after the 2009 season. However, Michael Vick's return to the NFL after a two-year absence may give hope to Stallworth suiting up again--even if it's with a team other than the Browns.
Cleveland Browns Wide Receiver Issues
One of the main headlines for the Cleveland Browns this offseason has been whether or not quarterbacks Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn will be taking snaps when the season kicks off in September. On top of their quarterback issues, it seems as if the team might be facing some issues at wide receiver as well.
Now that Stallworth has been suspended for the entire '09 season, the Browns must figure out how to fill in the void left at the wide receiver position.
In 2008, Stallworth signed a seven-year deal with the Browns that was worth around $35 million. He came to Cleveland after successful seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles, and New England Patriots.
The Browns were hoping Stallworth could provide a boost on offense this season after dealing with injuries a majority of last season. Due to the injuries, he was only able to play in 11 games (seven of which he started), hauling in just 17 receptions for 170 yards and one touchdown.
Now, the Browns may have to rely even more on wide receiver Braylon Edwards on offense after Stallworth's suspension. Not to mention the team is already without their former Pro Bowl tight end Kellen Winslow, who was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the offseason.
Donte' Stallworth Suspended For 2009 Season
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