Browns' Garrett Accuses Steelers' Rudolph Of Racial Slur

PITTSBURGH, PA - Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett accused Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph of using a racial slur prior to the brawl during last week's game in which Garrett clubbed Rudolph on the head with his own helmet.

The allegation was made Wednesday as Garrett appealed his suspension lasting at least the rest of the season, according to ESPN. If Garrett thought the accusation would help him get a reduced suspension, he was incorrect as the NFL on Thursday said the length remains indefinite.

Rudolph's attorney, Timothy Younger, immediately issued a statement labeling the allegation "a desperate attempt to mitigate (Garrett's) suspension."

"This false allegation was never asserted by Garrett in the aftermath of the game, never suggested prior to the hearing and conspicuously absent in the apology published by the Browns and Garrett," Younger noted.

"The malicious use of this wild and unfounded accusation is an assault on Mason's integrity which is far worse than than the physical assault witnessed on Thursday. This is reckless and shameful."

Several of Garrett's teammates had heard nothing about the alleged slur until asked about it Thursday by an ESPN reporter.