With a punch, Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill has knocked himself out.
Last Thursday, the 2019 second-round pick slugged Las Vegas Raiders guard John Simpson in the head following a 36-33 overtime loss on Thanksgiving. On Monday, the NFL announced Hill will be suspended two games without pay, beginning this Thursday against the New Orleans Saints.
Hill is scheduled to miss a Dec. 12 divisional game at Washington, too.
He can appeal the ruling.
As things stand, the talented 23-year-old will forfeit more than $100,000 in salary, and the Cowboys will prepare to be without him in New Orleans.
Hill was coming off a strong game, adding a needed interior presence with his toughness, athleticism and motor against the run. He totaled five tackles in a season-high 39 defensive snaps against Las Vegas.
With this latest incident, Hill is developing an underhanded reputation around the NFL.
Last year, in Week 3, he twisted Seattle Seahawks running back Chris Carson’s leg after a play, resulting in a knee sprain that sidelined Carson for the game’s remainder. The NFL reviewed the barrel roll and fined Hill $6,522 for it.
Hill tore his ACL two weeks later. After reconstructive knee surgery, he missed all of the spring and training camp before making his season debut on Nov. 14 in the ninth game, a 43-3 win over the Atlanta Falcons.
