Browns LB Fujita expected to appeal

Associated PRess

CLEVELAND

Scott Fujita’s first two seasons in Cleveland ended early with injuries.

His third may start late, and not because of anything he did with the Browns.

The outspoken linebacker was suspended three games without pay by the NFL on Wednesday for his involvement in the New Orleans Saints “bounty” program, which rewarded players thousands of dollars for hard hits on opponents.

Fujita, who spent four seasons with New Orleans before signing as a free agent with Cleveland in 2010, was one of four players suspended as commissioner Roger Goodell continues cracking down on the rogue cash-for-hits system that has tainted the Saints’ rise to Super Bowl champions.

Fujita got off with the lightest penalty, but the 33-year-old will lose approximately $644,000 if he misses the three games. He is expected to appeal the ruling.

The NFL said Fujita “pledged a significant amount of money to the prohibited pay-for-performance/bounty pool during the 2009 NFL Playoffs.” The league said the pool paid large cash payoffs for “cart-offs” and “knockouts,” plays during which an opposing player was injured.

Fujita did not immediately respond to an email or phone call from the AP seeking comment. He is not taking part in the Browns’ “voluntary” offseason conditioning program and remains in California with his family. His wife, Jaclyn, recently gave birth to the couple’s third daughter.

Browns coach Pat Shurmur said the team will abide by Goodell’s ruling.

“We will respect the Commissioner’s decision,” Shurmur said in a statement. “Scott is a valued member of the Cleveland Browns, and we look forward to his participation in our offseason program and training camp.”

Fujita’s involvement in the Saints’ illegal bounty program — the league called it a “leadership role” — would seem to contradict many of his beliefs. Active in social causes, Fujita is an executive member of the players’ union and has worked diligently to raise awareness for player safety.