Jameis Winston Officially Suspended 3 Games, QB Issues Apology to Uber Driver

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston issued an apology Thursday after the NFL officially informed him of a three-game suspension for allegedly groping an Uber driver in March 2016. 

Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network provided the full statement from Winston:

The NFL announced the Bucs QB "advised the league office that he accepts this discipline" and will not appeal the decision:

"In his letter advising Winston of the suspension, [NFL special counsel for conduct Todd] Jones stated after full consideration of the record, including a meeting with Winston and his representatives, and a written submission by his attorneys, that the driver's account of the incident was consistent and credible. As a result, the investigation had concluded that Winston violated the Personal Conduct Policy by touching the driver in an inappropriate and sexual manner without her consent and that disciplinary action was necessary and appropriate."

Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reported Winston was "subject to a possible six game suspension" and that the ban is a result "of a lot of cooperation between the NFL, Winston's reps and the NFLPA. Stroud called Winston "fortunate."

Winston was never arrested or criminally charged in the case.

Along with the three-game suspension, the NFL stated the 24-year-old Alabama native is "required to obtain a clinical evaluation and fully cooperate in any recommended program of therapeutic intervention" and was informed further violations could lead to "more substantial discipline, including a potential ban from the NFL."

Winston, who can remain on the active roster to participate in training camp and preseason games, will miss regular-season matchups with the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers. He'll be eligible to return Week 4 against the Chicago Bears.

Ryan Fitzpatrick is slated to fill the short-term void for Tampa.