Oakland Raiders wide receiver Michael Crabtree, and Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib have both been suspended two games without pay for their fight during the first half of Sunday's game. The two players were ejected from the game but the NFL is further punishing them for violating unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness rules.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the reason for the suspension stems from the fact that the brawl seemed to be winding down, then both players ramped the skirmishes up again. Crabtree and Talib are appealing the suspension.
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Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio didn't seem to think the suspension was necessary considering Bengals wide receiver AJ Green and Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey were not suspended for their fight.
Crabtree and Talib have a history together, the last time came in the final week of the 2016 season, when Talib once again ripped off Crabtree's chain. Heading into their Week 12 matchup, Crabtree reportedly taped his chain to his neck but that didn't prevent Talib from snatching it, which incited the brawl.
Crabtree has 42 catches for 502 yards and a team-high six touchdowns this season for the Raiders, while Talib, a Pro Bowl cornerback, has started every game this season for the Broncos.
The Raiders, 5-6, will host the New York Giants next Sunday. The 3-8 Broncos will travel to Miami for a matchup against the Dolphins.
