Joplo Bartu has two game ban rescinded, fined $50,000
Atlanta Falcons linebacker Joplo Bartu has seen his two-game suspension lifted, and has been fined $50,000 for an alcohol-related offense.
Falcons LB Joplo Bartu fined $50,000 after two-game suspension was rescinded, per @RapSheethttp://t.co/3VVqT2EhiA
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) May 21, 2015
The story was first reported by NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport:
"Last season, Bartu pleaded no contest to driving under the influence and received a two-day suspended sentence and 12 months of probation, along with enrollment in a risk reduction class. According to an NFL and NFLPA agreement, players had until Nov. 1, 2014 to resolve DUIs for them to be accepted under the old policy that did not require a suspension."
The two-year pro hasn’t missed a game for the Falcons. In 2014, he made 83 tackles, one sack and recovered two fumbles. According to Football Outsiders, Bartu played on 44.9 percent of the Falcons’ defensive snaps, and 22.1 percent of special teams snaps.
With the additions made in free agency and through the draft, Bartu will find competition for a starting role on Dan Quinn’s defense. From Bartu’s perspective, he will be relieved he doesn’t have to miss time, and it will help his chances in making himself part of Quinn’s plans moving forward.
According to Rapoport, Bartu has been warned that any future violations will receive harsher punishments.
Let’s hope this is the last we hear of any Falcons getting into off-the-field issues.