Myles Garrett claims Mason Rudolph used racial slur
- by Grant Boone
- in Sports
- — Nov 24, 2019
"He will not discuss this accusation any further and his focus remains on preparation for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals".
An NFL spokersperson said the league looked into Garrett's allegation but "found no such evidence" Rudolph uttered a racial slur, per Schefter. The new detail regarding provoking language was mentioned for the first known time during Garrett's appeal hearing with the National Football League and was reported first by ESPN.
Rudolph was not available to speak to reporters following the team's Thursday afternoon practice, but his attorney, Timothy M. Younger, shared a statement on his behalf.
Browns General Manager John Dorsey said the team will continue to support Garrett, a defensive end and first overall pick in the 2017 draft.
Rudolph, who has not yet been disciplined for his role in the fight, said Wednesday that there was "no acceptable excuse" for his behavior during the fight. In addition to Garrett's suspension, two other players - the Steelers' Maurkice Pouncey and the Browns' Larry Ogunjobi - were suspended for three games and one game, respectively. "I know that we are all responsible for our actions and I can only prove my true character through my actions moving forward".
Garrett hit Rudolph during the Browns' win over the Steelers last week.
What caused Myles Garrett to come unhinged and strike Mason Rudolph with his own helmet?
In the incident, Rudolph and Garrett got tangled up on a pass play and then things got physical.
Additionally, Rudolph's lawyer called Garrett's claim false, saying in a statement to ESPN, "According to ESPN, in his appeal, Myles Garrett falsely asserted that Mason Rudolph uttered a racial slur toward him, prior to swinging a helmet at Mason's uncovered head, in a desperate attempt to mitigate his suspension".
