GLENDALE, ARIZ. — Brandon Marshall will take it.
Upon appeal, the NFL decided to reduce the suspension of the Broncos’ star receiver from three games to one. His suspension will officially start at 2 p.m. MDT today and Marshall will miss the regular-season Sept. 8 at Oakland.
But Marshall will be able to return Sept. 9, much sooner than expected. He will be able to play in the season’s second game against the San Diego Chargers at Invesco Field.
“I’m pleased with the decision,” Marshall said following the Broncos’ 28-14 preseason win here Friday night against the Arizona Cardinals, a game he did not play in. “It could be a lot worse. But it’s all about me staying in shape mentally and physically the week I’m out and being there for my teammates and getting San Diego when I get back.”
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had found Marshall in violation of the league’s personal conduct policy following the receiver’s numerous disturbances involving a former girlfriend. The initial punishment was a three-game suspension with the possibility of reducing it to two games if Marshall met conditions of counseling and avoided further legal trouble.
But after Marshall and attorney Harvey Steinberg received an appeal hearing Tuesday in New York, Goodell agreed to lighten the punishment.
“That’s why they have the appeal process,” said Broncos coach Mike Shanahan. “I’d like him not to have any suspensions, but one is better than two. I told him before you don’t worry about something you can’t control and just focus on football and I think he’s done that.”
Marshall said he would work out and watch film of San Diego’s defense during his week off. He thinks the Broncos will be able compensate for his absence in the opener at Oakland.
“As far as the wide receiver position, we’re so deep there’s not going to be a drop off,” he said. “We all bring something to the table that’s a little different. I’m excited to see those guys go out and play.”
Mike Klis: 303-954-1055 or mklis@denverpost.com.
