Broncos safety T.J. Ward suspended for Week 1 against the Ravens
Denver Broncos safety T.J. Ward was suspended for Week 1 of the NFL season against the Baltimore Ravens for violating the league's personal-conduct policy, the team announced Thursday.
Ward's suspension resulted from an incident that occurred at a strip club shortly after he signed with the Broncos last year, for which he was arrested.
In August, the charges against Ward were dropped, in exchange for four hours of community service.
Ward issued a statement through the team after the suspension was announced.
“I take full responsibility for the incident that occurred in May 2014 and am willing to accept the consequences of my actions by serving my one game suspension,” Ward said. “Although I was never arrested and all charges against me were ultimately dismissed, I have no one to blame but myself for being in the predicament that evening. To the Denver Broncos organization, the Bowlen family and to the Denver Bronco fans, I want to apologize for my conduct. I have learned from my mistakes and will continue to be a pillar in the community to make myself a stronger person and player for the Denver Broncos.”
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Ward, 28, signed a four-year, $23 million contract with Denver in 2014. He ranked second on the team with 74 tackles (60 solo), and was selected to his second Pro Bowl.
Before his signing with Denver, Ward played four seasons for the Cleveland Browns and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2013.
Ward was selected by the Browns in the second round of the 2010 draft.
The Broncos open the 2015 season against the Ravens on Sept. 13.
- Kayla Lombardo
