I wrote earlier today how the signs were pointing to Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Weslye Saunders testing positive for the prescription drug Adderall, and tonight a source informed me that Saunders did test positive for the drug that he was apparently using to treat ADD, better known as attention deficit disorder. The source thinks that Saunders will appeal the 4 game suspension that was reported on Monday, but does not think that he will win the appeal.
This case and suspension really parallels closely to that of St. Louis Rams wide receiver Austin Pettis, who was suspended 4 games this past December for using Adderall. Pettis said in a written statement to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch after the suspension was announced: “I apologize to the St. Louis Rams, my teammates, and our fans for making a poor decision that led to my suspension. I tried Adderall, but I failed to follow the proper procedures set forth by the NFL before using such medication. I accept full responsibility and must endure the consequences for my action. I promise to emerge on the other side of this suspension as a better person and player.” That was followed up by a statement by then Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo which said, “Austin\’s situation is unfortunate. Obviously, we are disappointed and will miss him during this suspension. But the NFL\’s policies are very clear and we respect the League\’s decision in this matter.”
The league seems to take a very stiff stance when it comes to their policy as it relates to anabolic steroids and related substances and seems not willing to give after the fact if the proper channels are not followed. Players need to check with the league on everything they put in their body and it appears that Saunders did not go through those proper channels according to the source. Hopefully Saunders can win his appeal, but for now it looks very bleak.
