National Football League

Colts LB Walden, Bucs S Goldson suspended by NFL

Published Nov. 18, 2013 11:47 p.m. ET

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Colts linebacker Erik Walden's head-butt and Buccaneers safety Dashon Goldson's helmet-to-helmet hit have earned one-game suspensions from the NFL.

NFL Vice President of Football Operations Merton Hanks announced the punishments Monday.

Walden pulled off the helmet of Titans tight end Delanie Walker, then slammed his own helmet into Walker's head during Indianapolis' game against Tennessee on Thursday.

It was similar to what Texans defensive end Antonio Smith did in the preseason to Miami guard Richie Incognito, earning Smith a one-game ban in the regular season and for two exhibition games.

Walden was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct but not ejected from the Tennessee game.

Goldson was penalized for unnecessary roughness for his hit on a defenseless receiver, Roddy White, against Atlanta on Sunday.

It was Goldson's third such violation this season. He was fined $30,000 for hitting a defenseless player in the head and neck area in Week 1, then was initially suspended for a game for a helmet-to-helmet hit in Week 2. That ban was changed to a $100,000 fine on appeal.

Both players have the right to appeal and are expected to do so.

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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org