Indianapolis Colts receiver Keenan Allen reportedly faces a minimum three game NFL suspension after prosecutors formally charged him with two misdemeanor counts stemming from an August arrest.
ESPN reported Sunday that league discipline is expected after the legal process concludes. Reuters independently published the reported suspension, while the Associated Press previously confirmed the charges and court schedule. The NFL has not announced a suspension, and Allen remains eligible to play while the case proceeds.
What Allen has been charged with
Allen was arrested in downtown Indianapolis on August 30 after police found his vehicle parked in a restricted area and observed signs of intoxication, according to court records cited by the Associated Press and Reuters.
Prosecutors charged Allen with operating a vehicle with an alcohol concentration of 0.15 or higher and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Reports citing the court records state that his blood alcohol concentration measured 0.224.
The charges are allegations. Allen has not been convicted. He posted a $500 cash bond, waived his initial hearing and is scheduled for an attorney conference on October 26.
Why a suspension is expected
ESPN reported that Allen faces a minimum three game suspension under the NFL policy that governs alcohol related driving offenses. The league can impose additional discipline depending on the circumstances, but no final penalty has been announced.
The timing means Allen can continue playing unless the NFL acts before his case is resolved. The Colts have said they are aware of the matter and have been gathering information.
What it means for Indianapolis
Allen signed a one year contract with Indianapolis in August and immediately became an experienced option for the Colts offense. He caught six passes for 32 yards in the season opener against Baltimore.
Any suspension would remove a reliable possession receiver from a group that also features Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce and Josh Downs. Indianapolis would have to redistribute Allen's short area targets and third down work during his absence.
The 34 year old is a six time Pro Bowl selection and ranks among the most productive receivers of his generation. He has played for the Chargers, Bears and Colts, recording more than 1,000 career receptions and more than 12,000 receiving yards.
For now, Allen's playing status has not changed. The formal charges are pending, the NFL has not issued discipline and the reported suspension remains a future possibility rather than a confirmed penalty.
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