Sean Payton and the Biggest Suspensions in Sports

Sports figures are often known for their controversial ways, and with Sean Payton just earning himself quite the lengthy suspension, we'd like to look at others who got caught in the act.

Whether an aging veteran or hopeful youngster was found to have illegal juices flowing through his body, a coach turned a blind eye to unorthodox methods or an instigating defender stretched the limits of a legal hit, these individuals were caught in the act, tarnished reputations and all.

Most leagues feel strongly about proper discipline, and while it rarely does the trick, suspension is perhaps the most consistent fallback option.

Now seems like the perfect time to check out the biggest suspensions in sports.

Just a slight step above detention.

10. Ricky Williams

Suspended for four games and fined $650,000 after seemingly not being willing to give up marijuana, Ricky Williams left a promising legacy on the gridiron when he retired in 2004.

But he would be back soon, picking up his dominating ways right where he left off after studying holistic medicine and apparently finding his way.

9. Latrell Sprewell

Headlining his time with the Golden State Warriors, attention-hogging Latrell Sprewell felt it necessary to choke and then punch coach P.J. Carlesimo during a practice in 1997.

He was initially suspended for a year by NBA commissioner David Stern, but the suspension was eventually cut down to 68 games.

Naturally he found himself in New York the following year.

Just trying to put food on the table—of course, we get it.

8. Todd Bertuzzi

Most fans now know thoroughbred 6'3" winger Todd Bertuzzi for his infamous punch on a vulnerable, non-aware Steve Moore, essentially retaliating for his opponent's hit on teammate Markus Naslund.

Who knows if a 17-month suspension was long enough, but it sure got people thinking.

Moore would never play again, and Bertuzzi will likely never clench his fist again.

7. Metta World Peace

Ironically referred to as Metta World Peace these days, there was a time when Ron Artest wasn't so friendly and cooperative.

After being taunted by Pistons fans for most of the game, Artest was drilled with a cold drink by an eager fan...that was it for the feisty Pacers star.

Mayhem ensued, and eventually nine players were suspended for a total of 146 games. Artest's suspension included 73 games and the playoffs.

6. South Africa

While many remember South Africa being banned from the Olympic Games (1964-92) due to its apartheid policies, few realize how monumental a comeback it had after being reinstated.

Finally the 44-year policy had been lifted...

Long-distance runner Elana Meyer won a silver medal at the 10,000-meter event in Barcelona in the country's first Olympic action in almost 30 years.

5. Marty McSorley

With three seconds left in a routine game on February 21st of 2000, Marty McSorley made one play that would essentially end his career.

The forward/defender swung his stick to the head of fighting extraordinaire Donald Brashear, leading to his opponent experiencing a Grade 3 concussion after hitting the ice.

He was charged with assault and suspended by the NHL for the remainder of the 1999-2000 season (including playoffs), which eventually was extended.

It would end up being McSorley's last game on ice.

4. Sean Payton

How much worse can it get for the bounty-clad Saints?

They lose head coach Sean Payton for a full year without pay, GM Mickey Loomis for eight games, assistant coach Joe Vitt for six games and second-round picks in 2012 and 2013.

Let's not forget new Rams defensive coordinate Gregg Williams, who is suspended indefinitely.

Ouch all around.

3. Tonya Harding

Perhaps the most competitive athlete on this list for her sheer will to win, Tonya Harding will forever remain notorious for her planned conspiracy in the 1994 U.S. Nationals.

Ex-husband Jeff Gillooly and bodyguard Shawn Eckhardt essentially hired someone to whack opponent Nancy Kerrigan's knee two days before the event.

But it was only a matter of time before Harding coughed up to covering up the attack, pleading guilty all the way around after her conscience seemingly caught up to her.

Her national title was rescinded, and she was banned by the USFSA forever.

History was made.

2. Pete Rose

After a brilliant record-breaking career on the diamond, Pete Rose managed his beloved Reds from 1984 until 1989, when he was banned for having bet on games.

Despite being the all-time Major League Baseball leader in hits (4,256), Rose will never see his legendary name in the Hall of Fame.

A lifetime ban is sure to send a message.

1. Chicago Black Sox

After it was believed that Shoeless Joe Jackson and seven other White Sox players had thrown the 1919 World Series, the league appointed its first commissioner to present lifetime bans.

The curse was finally broken when the Sox won the World Series in 2005, after years of anger, sadness and regret.