Broncos executives receive harsh punishment for recent DUI arrests; lineman also charged with DUI

Broncos director of pro personnel Tom Heckert was suspended a month by the team after a DUI arrest. (Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos suspended executives Matt Russell and Tom Heckert following their recent DUI arrests, the team announced Monday.

Russell, the Broncos director of player personnel, will be suspended indefinitely without pay. Heckert, the team's director of pro personnel, will be suspended one month without pay and treatment will be provided as needed with an evaluation ongoing. The NFL will not issue any further punishment for the two and both suspensions begin immediately.

Heckert was arrested in Parker, Colo., on June 11 and charged with driving under the influence and careless driving. Russell was arrested July 6 and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence. Heckert had a blood alcohol content level of .16, more than two times the legal limit for the state of Colorado. Russell reportedly had a BAC of .24.

"The Broncos will support Matt and Tom during their suspensions and beyond as necessary," the team said in a statement. "They will be provided with treatment resources as needed in the form of education, counseling and other rehabilitation programs.

"Specifics of their treatment will be kept confidential due to the personal nature of these matters. Both will be monitored closely to ensure compliance and will be thoroughly evaluated before any potential return to employment with the Denver Broncos."

The Broncos are also dealing with the DUI arrest of second-year offensive lineman Quentin Saulsberry, who was arrested May 19 on suspicion of drunken driving and later charged with DUI and a lane-usage violation, according to the Denver Post.

"We have been aware of Quentin Saulsberry's arrest and will continue to monitor the legal developments related to this matter, which is subject to review under the NFL's policies," the Broncos said in a statement.