The Facts: Gordon didn't make the trip to New England after being diagnosed with strep throat -- the end of a tumultuous week in which hw was cited late Tuesday for driving under the influence, making him subject to a potential three-game NFL suspension and jeopardizing the remaining guarantees in his contract. The collective bargaining agreement ratified in March increased the mandatory suspension for DUI from two to three games, which would cost Gordon nearly $800,000 in game checks if served next season at his current salary.

Diehards Line: A suspension also could allow the Broncos to void a $4.5 million full guarantee on Gordon's 2021 base salary, though it's not clear whether they would do so. The team doesn't plan to fine or suspend Gordon, sources tell NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. He handled himself well after the incident, apologizing to everyone from teammates to president of football operations/general manager John Elway to team president/CEO Joe Ellis. Still, Gordon, 27, is in line for discipline from the NFL. His arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 13.