Gay has reported violating the league’s personal conduct policy. More information below.
Justin Miles @justm1les
Chiefs star linebacker Willie Gay Jr has been suspended 4 games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Gay was arrested this past January and was accused of ‘criminal property damage of less than $1,000’, a misdemeanor charge. The arrest came after Gay reportedly damaged a vacuum cleaner, television, wall, and door frame in an argument with his son’s mother. It is to be noted that Gay did not inflict nor intend to inflict harm on any person, only appliances. This past summer, Gay agreed to enter a diversion program to resolve the criminal case. However, the league felt the need to get involved.
The 4 game suspension will cause Gay to miss games against the Indianapolis Colts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Buffalo Bills. The linebacker is set to make his return in week 7 when the Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49ers. Off of the field, per league rules, Gay is not allowed to enter team facilities nor have any contact with team officials for the first 2 weeks of his suspension. For the final 2 weeks, Gay is permitted to enter facilities and attend team meetings. This suspension definitely raises questions, especially when compared to scenarios such as Deshaun Watson. Watson was accused of sexually assaulting more than two dozen women, and was only suspended for 11 games. Many people only expected Gay to receive a fine for his actions, however, that was clearly not the case. At this time, Gay and his agent are considering appealing the fine, but have yet to make a decision. No charges were processed and all disagreements were settled. Arguments are bound to happen and it seemed as if this whole thing had passed. For these reasons, there is a possibility that the NFLPA could also get involved in a possible appeal case. It will be interesting to see how this plays out as more information on this story will soon follow.
Through the first 2 weeks of the season, Gay has been one of the most key players on the Chiefs’ defense. On average he has played 78.5% of defensive snaps, despite being pulled early in week 1 due to the Chiefs having an astounding lead. Gay has 18 total tackles, 2 passes deflected, and a quarterback hit, on the season so far.
Nick Bolton has been the Chiefs’ other linebacker and has also had an impressive start to the season. The Chiefs’ depth at the position consists of 2 rookies and 2 veterans. The rookies are 3rd round pick Leo Chenal and UDFA Jack Cochrane. The veterans, who have spent most of their time mainly on special teams, are Elijah Lee and Darius Harris. We will likely see a rotation of guys to fill Gay’s role.
It will be interesting to see how Steve Spagnuolo and Co adapt to the setback. We will see the Chiefs’ early adjustments this Sunday against the Colts. Still have high expectations but give a little grace for the first few drives as they figure out how to manage without one of their best players.
