Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Tamba Hali ready to return after suspension – NFL News
After missing Week 1 game owing to suspension, Pro Bowl linebacker Tamba Hali is set to play on Sunday, September 16, 2012 as Kansas City Chiefs take on against Buffalo Bills.
Chiefs will certainly appreciate Hali’s presence on the field after a miserable show by their defence, which caused their defeat, 40-24, in the season opener against Atlanta Falcons.
Hali was given a one-week suspension by the National Football League (NFL) for violating substance abuse policy. He apologised for his behaviour but did not disclose the details of what exactly had happened that led to the suspension.
The linebacker stepped on the training field on Wednesday, September 12, and participated in the team drills. According to the Associated Press, Hali said:
"I've got to be careful of what I say. I can't elaborate on anything. I'm just very sorry for what went on."
Hali carried on and said that he had no objections on the suspension and wanted to move forward and concentrate on his next assignment that is to play in Week 2 game against Bills.
Chiefs’ defence looked lacklustre in absence of Hali as they got only one sack during the entire season opener.
Hali has a good reputation in the defensive team as well as on the overall roster. He has been supported by his fellow teammates throughout the suspension period. Linebacker Derrick Johnson said:
"We stick by Tamba all the way. He's one of our brothers, our family members, and we know he's all-in with us. Tamba is our best player on defence. He's going to get to the quarterback, he's going to help the back line -- he's going to help me out."
He has already apologised to his teammates for his deeds leading to suspension that might have cost Chiefs the game.
Hali himself was very frustrated watching his defence getting ripped apart by Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. Hali said:
"We played a good team, and it's always frustrating when I can't be out there, or any other players can't be out there to contribute, but they played as best they can.”
Before the season opener, Hali had never missed a game in his entire six-season career.
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