FRISCO, Texas — The NFL has issued a three-game suspension to Dallas Cowboys defensive end Sam Williams for breaching the league’s personal conduct policy.

Williams has been on injured reserve throughout the season due to a torn ACL in his left knee, which he sustained while participating in special teams drills during training camp in August. Following the injury, he underwent surgery that has effectively ended his season. The suspension entails the loss of his salary for the duration of three weeks, but he is set to be eligible for reinstatement on November 11, without the need to miss any games once he recovers from injury.

In 2023, Williams was arrested on two separate occasions linked to traffic violations. His first incident occurred in August when he was stopped by police in Frisco, shortly after the team returned from a training camp in California. He was subsequently charged with possession of a controlled substance and unlawfully carrying a weapon.

This incident followed a previous charge in December 2022, where Williams was implicated in reckless driving after a collision that occurred while he was speeding almost 100 mph and swerving through traffic. The crash involved an elderly woman driving another vehicle, but fortunately, no serious injuries were reported for either party.

Prior to his injury during camp this year, the 6-foot-4, 261-pound Williams had been anticipated to take on a more significant role as an edge rusher for the Cowboys. With key players such as defensive end Dorance Armstrong and outside linebacker Dante Fowler departing during free agency in the offseason, his presence was deemed crucial.

Drafted in the second round from Mississippi in 2022, Williams has played a total of 32 regular-season games over his first two years, including all 17 games in the previous season. He boasts a career record of 8.5 sacks, showcasing his potential for contributing to the team’s defense.