Former Detroit Lions defensive tackle Isaiah Buggs is still a free agent, but even if he finds a landing spot soon, the former sixth round pick is facing a long suspension.
After facing domestic violence, burglary and cruelty to dogs charges, Buggs received a suspension for the first 10 weeks of the 2025 season, according to an NFL personnel notice on Friday.
Buggs, 29, has not played in the NFL since 2023 as a member of the Lions’ roster.
He was arrested on burglary and domestic violence charges in June 2024, but those charges were reduced to misdemeanor criminal trespass as part of a plea deal.
His animal cruelty charges from May 2024 accused Buggs of leaving two dogs locked on his property in Tuscaloosa, Alabama without access to food or water. Buggs “vehemently” denied the accusation of the charges and they were dismissed in April after he was initially sentenced to 60 days of hard labor.
Originally drafted to the Pittsburgh Steelers out of Alabama in 2019, Buggs signed with the Lions in 2022 and quickly carved out a role for himself as a starter.
In 27 games with the Lions, Buggs amassed 58 tackles and two sacks. He was released by the organization in January 2024.
After a stint with the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad, his various legal incidents led to a release last summer.
Buggs eventually signed with the UFL’s San Antonio Brahmas earlier this year to try and kick start his career again. He played in four games, totaling four tackles and two sacks.
According to PennLive, Buggs is remaining in good shape, dropping 20 pounds (from 336 to 315) this offseason in hopes a team will sign him after the end of his suspension.
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