Why didn’t the NFL suspend Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers after domestic violence allegations?
While the decision is sure to raise some eyebrows, the reality is that the league has taken a decision on the Ravens’ pass catcher and that as they say, is that.
After finding himself the focus of an official NFL investigation, the Baltimore Ravens’ wideout appears to have avoided any form of punishment. As things stand the up-and-coming talent can now focus fully on his job which can only be good news for his team.
NFL won’t punish Zay Flowers
According to an official announcement from the NFL on Thursday, the league has brought an end to its investigation into Baltimore Ravens wide receiver, Zay Flowers, after finding insufficient evidence that he violated its personal conduct policy. The league’s decision comes two months after Baltimore County police announced they had suspended their investigation into the 23-year-old with no criminal charges.
“Following a review, the NFL concluded there was insufficient evidence to support a finding that Zay Flowers engaged in any activity that violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy. There will be no action taken by the league and Flowers remains eligible to participate in all team activities,” the NFL’s statement read. It’s worth noting that both of the investigations could still be reopened should there be further evidence revealed, however, it appears that Flowers is free of charge for the moment. To be clear, the NFL can punish a player regardless of if he has been charged with a crime.
Regarding what Flowers is accused of, the incident in question is said to have occurred in Owings Mill, Maryland, on January 16th as per the Baltimore Sun. At the time police documents reported that the alleged victim reported a “violent domestic incident” while in Acton, Massachusetts. Reports indicated that she would not identify the suspect involved other than to say that he was an NFL player and “all over social media.” Further to that, it is understood that police contacted the alleged victim once more on January 30th. At that point, she stated that there were “no further issues” before declining to provide any other details. Flowers himself also reportedly refused to speak with investigators through his legal representative. Ultimately, the news is undoubtedly good news for the franchise. Despite his costly goal-line fumble against the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC championship game, Flowers set franchise records in catches and receiving yards in what was his rookie season with the Ravens. Expect him to continue in the same vein this coming season.