NFL suspends Ravens running back Ray Rice for two games

The NFL has suspended Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice for the first two games of the season in the wake of his offseason domestic violence incident. Rice was indicted on aggravated assault charges in March.

The NFL has suspended Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice for the first two games of the season in the wake of his offseason domestic violence incident, the league announced Thursday.

Rice was indicted on aggravated assault charges in March following a Feb. 15 incident with his then-fiancée in an Atlantic City casino. Security camera footage showed Rice dragging an unconscious Janay Palmer, now his wife, out of an elevator.

The running back apologized for his actions at a controversial May press conference with Palmer by his side. After pleading not guilty, Rice received approval in June to enter a pretrial intervention program that could lead to his charges being dismissed. If convicted, Rice would have faced three to five years in prison.

The suspension begins on Aug. 30 and ends on Sept. 12. Rice will be suspended without pay, and will also be fined an additional game check.

Rice, a three-time Pro Bowl running back, rushed for 660 yards and four touchdowns last season, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry.

More: Offseason Report Card: Ravens

- Ben Estes