The National Football League has handed down suspensions to two players from separate teams as the league enforces its policies on substance use ahead of the upcoming season. The disciplinary actions involve Tennessee Titans defensive back Nazeeh Johnson and Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis.
Player Suspensions and Policy Violations
Tennessee Titans defensive back Nazeeh Johnson received a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy concerning performance-enhancing substances. While the specific substance involved has not been publicly disclosed, the violation pertains to the league’s strict guidelines on PEDs.
Shortly after news of Johnson’s suspension broke, a separate announcement detailed a three-game ban for Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis. Mathis’ suspension stems from a violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy. According to reports, this violation is linked to an alcohol-related incident that occurred in the spring of 2025. At the time of the incident, Mathis was a member of the New York Jets, having been claimed off waivers in December 2024. He did not play in any games for the Jets.
Player Backgrounds and Career Statistics
Phidarian Mathis’ NFL Journey
Phidarian Mathis, a defensive tackle, was originally selected by the Washington Commanders in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft after a collegiate career at Alabama. He spent two seasons with the Commanders before joining the Buffalo Bills. During the previous season, Mathis appeared in six games for the Bills, accumulating 13 total tackles, with four of those being solo tackles. He is eligible to return to play on September 28.
Nazeeh Johnson’s Career Path
Nazeeh Johnson, a defensive back drafted out of Marshall, was initially selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft. His 2025 season was significantly impacted by a shoulder injury sustained during the preseason. He was eventually activated prior to Week 14 but only participated in two games. Johnson signed with the Tennessee Titans as a free agent in July. Throughout his NFL career, Johnson has recorded 66 total tackles, including 39 solo tackles, and one sack.
League’s Stance on Substance Policies
The NFL maintains rigorous policies regarding both performance-enhancing substances and general substance abuse. These policies are designed to ensure competitive fairness and player safety across the league. Violations can result in significant penalties, including lengthy suspensions, which can impact team performance and player availability, particularly as teams prepare for the start of the regular season.
The timing of these suspensions, occurring shortly before the season begins, underscores the league’s commitment to enforcing its rules consistently. Such actions serve as a reminder to all players about the importance of adhering to the established protocols designed to uphold the integrity of the game.
Conclusion
The suspensions of Nazeeh Johnson and Phidarian Mathis highlight the NFL’s ongoing efforts to enforce its substance policies. As teams finalize their rosters and strategies for the upcoming season, these disciplinary measures serve as a critical reminder of the league’s expectations regarding player conduct and adherence to its rules. Both players will miss a portion of the regular season due to these violations, impacting their respective teams’ defensive depth.
