ESPN NFL Reporter Adam Schefter is reporting that Duane Brown has been suspended for violating the leagues policy on performance enhancing substances.
This one…could get ugly. As far as internet slap fights go, I mean. I don’t think backup tackle Rashad Butler is a HUGE downgrade from Brown, who hasn’t exactly lived up to the first round pick that was spent on him. I’m willing to concede that the run game could drop off some, and Arian Foster fantasy owners have every right to be pissed off.
EDIT: There will be no appeal from Brown, who issued the following statement:
“First off, I want to personally apologize to Mr. McNair, Coach Kubiak and the rest of the coaching staff, my teammates, family and to all the great and loyal Texans fans. I take full responsibility for putting myself in this situation. I unknowingly took a supplement tainted with a banned substance and now have to deal with the consequences. After reviewing the appeal process and speaking with legal counsel, I have decided not to appeal my suspension. I understand the rules and accept my punishment.”
“I vow to learn from this mistake and be a better player and teammate because of it.”
The suspension will be effective immediately.
EDIT2: Rick Smith also issued a statement, via the Twitter of Nick Scurfield:
“We are disappointed that Duane Brown has been suspended. This is a significant blow to our team. Our players have to understand that they are responsible for what goes into their bodies and that they take risks anytime they use a supplement not approved by the NFL.
“Our head athletic trainer, head strength and conditioning coach as well as our team nutritionist have had many meetings and presentations constantly reminding our players about the dangers of the supplemental industry and risks associated with taking non-approved products.
“Gary [Kubiak] and our coaches are game planning for Dallas and he will be available for comment tomorrow after practice. I am confident in our coaches and our players that we will work through this adversity and continue to play winning football.”