Bell gets 3-game suspension

The NFL on Friday suspended Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell for the first three games of the season for missing multiple drug tests, a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy.

Bell initially faced a four-game suspension, but it was reduced to three games following an appeal to the league. Bell offered an apology in an Instagram post shortly after the suspension was announced, a post he later deleted.

This is the second time Bell has faced discipline from the league. He sat out the first two games of the 2015 season as punishment for his arrest in August 2014 on DUI and marijuana possession charges following a traffic stop. Bell was originally suspended three games before it was reduced on appeal.

Exhibitions

Trying to win a backup spot with Arizona, Matt Barkley completed 10 of 15 passes for 85 yards in the Cardinals’ 19-3 loss to the San Diego Chargers . ... Dallas linebacker James Morris targeted Matt Moore’s head while the Miami quarterback was sliding late in the second quarter of the Cowboys’ 4114 victory. Moore was treated for a concussion. Tony Romo made his preseason debut for Dallas, completing four of five passes . ... Washington receiver Rashad Ross made his best case for a roster spot with two touchdown catches and the Redskins came back to beat the New York Jets, 22-18.

Etc.

Atlanta Falcons Coach Dan Quinn says punter Matt Bosher avoided a serious injury to his chest when he was knocked out of Thursday night’s preseason win over the Cleveland Browns. Quinn said he’ll ask the NFL to review Browns linebacker Tank Carder’s hit on Bosher in Atlanta’s 24-13 win. ... Injured New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz might be closer to his first game since 2014, but it’s unlikely to be Saturday night at Buffalo.