Thursday was a fairly busy day from the standpoint of drug-related suspensions handed down by the NFL.
There were reports earlier in the day that New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson and Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain were suspended four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. Later in the afternoon a similar length ban was handed down to San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates but for differing reasons.
#Chargers TE Antonio Gates was suspended 4 games for violating the @NfL’s PED policy
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 2, 2015
Antonio Gates Suspended 4 Games for PED Violation
The 35-year-old Gates’ suspension stems from a positive test for performance enhancing drugs. Both the Chargers and Gates himself released statements in response to the league’s decision.
Statement From the San Diego Chargers
“We are tremendously disappointed for our team and our fans as well as Antonio, but no more disappointed than Antonio is with himself. Antonio is a member of the Chargers’ family and we will continue to support him 100-percent. We have the utmost confidence he will stay in excellent shape for the season and be ready to go when he returns in Week 5. While it’s unfortunate to not have him to start the season, we have complete confidence our tight end group will continue to play at a high level.”
Statement from Antonio Gates
“In my 12 years in the NFL, I have taken tremendous pride in upholding the integrity of the NFL shield and all that it entails. I have taken extreme care of my body with a holistic approach and never taken any substance that was illegal or banned by the NFL.
In an effort to recover from a long season and although I was unaware at the time, I regret to confirm that I tested positive for a substance that is currently on the NFL banned substance list. As an NFL veteran and team leader, I should have done my due diligence to ensure that what I was taking for recovery was within the NFL guidelines. I have always believed that ignorance is no excuse when it comes to these issues, and I take full responsibility for my actions.
I’d like to express my sincere apologies to the Chargers, my teammates, coaches, fans and the league who have always supported me and expected and gotten nothing but the highest level of integrity from me.”
Gates is coming off a second consecutive season with more than 800 yards receiving. His 12 touchdown receptions in 2014 was tied with Julius Thomas and Rob Gronkowski for the league lead among tight ends. It was also his best performance from the standpoint of touchdown catches since his sophomore campaign of 2004 when he caught 13.
When he does return from this suspension, the eight-time Pro Bowler will be entering his 13th season in the NFL. The Detroit, MI native has played his entire career with the Chargers and is the franchise’s all-time leader in catches (788), touchdown receptions (99) and receiving yards (10,014). He is one touchdown catch shy of becoming just the ninth player in NFL history to reach the century mark in that category.
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