The NFL suspended Dallas Cowboys right tackle La'el Collins after he attempted to bribe the NFL's drug-test collector, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Initial reports said that Collins' five-game ban was for missing drug tests. The veteran played in the season-opening loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The NFL Players Association was able to negotiate a reduction of Collins' suspension to two games, added Schefter. But the offensive lineman reportedly opted to appeal, and the arbitrator ruled that the league should increase the punishment back to the original five games.
Although Collins' lawyer is trying to appeal the arbitrator's decision, Schefter's sources believe the suspension will not be reduced again.
Collins apparently argued he missed the tests because one was scheduled on the day that Cowboys strength and conditioning coach Markus Paul died last November, while another was on the day of his uncle's funeral.
The 28-year-old will be eligible to return for the game against the Minnesota Vikings on Oct. 31.
