Mike Evans: Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver has suspension upheld after appeal

The National Football League announced Tuesday that wide receiver Mike Evans' one-game suspension for his blindside hit on New Orleans cornerback Marshon Lattimore has been upheld by appeals officer James Thrash.

"I want to sincerely apologize for my actions during Sunday's game," Evans said in a statement released by the team on Tuesday.

"I saw my quarterback getting shoved and I let my emotions get the better of me. My response was not appropriate and not a true indication of who I am as a player and a person. I take pride in playing the game the right way and I realize it was unprofessional and hurt my team."

Evans drilled Lattimore during Sunday's game after the cornerback had turned to confront Jameis Winston following a push from the Tampa Bay quarterback. Evans' actions set off a wild skirmish, resulting in a 15-yard penalty for the wideout rather than an ejection.

On Monday, Evans was suspended for one game by the NFL, and he appealed. He will sit out for the Buccaneers (2-6) in this Sunday's home game against the New York Jets (4-5) and will be eligible to return to the team's active roster on Nov. 13.