Broncos defensive lineman Derek Wolfe has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league’s policy on performance enhancing drugs.
“During the off-season I took a medication which is on the banned substance list,” Wolfe said in a statement. “The medication is not a substance which would enhance my on-field performance in any way, and I genuinely was unaware that it was prohibited, but players are responsible for what is in their bodies. I will certainly exercise far greater caution in the future and will seek advice relating to the permissibility of any and all medications.”
Ignorance has often been an excuse for violations of the PED policy, but players do have direct contact with physicians if they need them according the Lindsay Jones of USA Today.
All players have access to direct email/phone to doctor that operates drug program for questions about substances. Ignorance not an excuse.
— Lindsay Jones (@bylindsayhjones) July 24, 2015
Wolfe would go on to express some remorse, and will be looking forward to rejoining his teammates following the suspension.
“I’m very disappointed that I can’t help my team for the first four weeks of the season, but I look forward to a great season with the Broncos and can’t wait to get back on the field in week five.”
Wolfe can participate in training camp, and will begin serving his suspension on September 5th when the roster must be cut to 53 players. The four games he will miss include the Ravens, Chiefs, Lions and Vikings.
He will be eligible to return to the team following the Vikings game on Monday, October 5th.
