TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 13: Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tries to pass while under pressure from Leonard Floyd #94 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
On Thursday, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston was suspended three games for a 2016 incident in which he groped a female Uber driver.
The NFL stated in a press release that after a probe, it found that Winston violated the league’s personal conduct policy by “touching the driver in an inappropriate and sexual manner without her consent.”
The 24-year-old Pro Bowl quarterback apologized for his behavior in a statement. The Heisman Trophy winner had initially denied the accusation after it first surfaced last year.
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“It is uncharacteristic of me and I genuinely apologize,” Winston said. “In the past 2 1/2 years my life has been filled with experiences, opportunities and events that have helped me grow, mature and learn, including the fact that I have eliminated alcohol from my life.”
He continued: “Although I am disappointed in the NFL’s decision, I understand the NFL’s process, and I embrace this as an opportunity to take advantage of the resources available to help me achieve the goals that I have for myself.”
Winston mentioned alcohol because he reportedly admitted to drinking the night of the incident. There is no indication thus far that he will appeal his suspension.
The NFL also reportedly said in its statement that it could ban the 2015 first-round pick if he commits another violation in the future.
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After Winston sexually harassed the Uber driver in Scottsdale, Arizona in March 2016, the woman reportedly told the ride-sharing company and Buzzfeed News about the incident but did not call the police.
Winston, a former Florida State standout, has started 45 games in three years with the Buccaneers. According to several reports, Ryan Fitzpatrick is expected to replace him as starter for Tampa Bay’s first three games next season. Winston previously faced a similar allegation in 2012, while playing for FSU. A female student at the school then accused him of sexual assault.
One person who was vehement in criticizing the quarterback was ESPN’s Michelle Beadle:
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