By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Julian Edelman’s impending four-game suspension is happening because the Patriots receiver tested positive for a substance that “wasn’t immediately recognizable,” according to a report in Albert Breer’s Monday column for The MMQB. Scientists are continually analyzing the test.
Breer also noted that the test did not find any kind of stimulant, because under modified NFL rules, those fall under the substance abuse policy rather than PEDs. But it is still possible that Edelman tested positive for one of many banned “anabolic agents,” a list of which is available at the NFL Players Association website.
Edelman said “I don’t know what happened” as part of a statement on Instagram in response to the news that he was facing a four-game suspension. The ban is still pending appeal.
May 22, 2018; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) catches a pass during organized team activities at Gillette practice fields. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
The news also immediately brought heavy scrutiny on Alex Guerrero, who has trained Edelman in the past along with Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, and others at the TB12 Center at Patriot Place in Foxboro. Guerrero released a statement of his own, distancing himself from Edelman’s positive test.
Edelman’s positive test happened “a couple months ago” during the offseason, according to Breer.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
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