Antonio Smith has been banned for the final two games of the pre-season and the opening game of the regular season following a clash with Richie Incognito at the weekend.
The Houston Texans defensive end ripped off the Miami Dolphins guard's helmet during the two sides' pre-season game on Saturday before almost striking Incoginto with the item.
NFL.com reports that the 31-year-old has the right to appeal against the suspension, which would see him miss the week one game against the San Diego Chargers.
Smith was handed a $21,000 (£13,400) fine, which was reduced to $11,000 (£7,020) on appeal, for kicking Incognito during week one in 2012.