NFL Rumors: Cleveland Browns Joe Haden Facing Suspension
Citing multiple sources, ESPN Cleveland reports that Cleveland Browns CB Joe Haden is in danger of a four-game suspension for a failed drug test. The NFL is currently reviewing the results of the failed test. One source said Haden may have tested positive for the prescription drug Adderall during an off-season test administered in accordance with the NFL’s policy on anabolic steroids and related substances.
Adderall is a commonly prescribed drug to those with attention deficit disorder and narcolepsy. It is also used for people with excessive tiredness issues. Obviously, if Joe Haden has any of these disorders, he would have been prescribed, and could have made the NFL aware of that. Adderall is on the NFL’s list of banned substances and is classified as a stimulant.
According to sources, Joe Haden has been notified of the positive test results. However, under league policy’s, a positive drug test results in the player getting a second test from the original sample. If the second test results come up positive like the first time around, Haden will be suspended for the first four games of the regular season.
Of course, Joe can appeal the results, but if upheld, a four-game suspension is the least of his worries. He will also forfeit all game checks, or roughly around $1.356 million. He will also be ineligible for the 2013 Pro Bowl, and any other awards or honors from the league or the NFL Players Association.
Numerous figures close to Joe Haden have been contacted in regards to this situation, but most are keeping their mouths shut, or acting like it’s the first they have heard of it.
Joe’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, was approached by ESPNCleveland at the Browns training camp on Tuesday, but he declined to comment. Joe Haden also was approached and declined to comment.
If Haden loses any appeals and is suspended, he will be the fourth Browns player slated to miss their season opener on September 9th against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Michael J. Igyarto is a featured columnist for Rant Sports
Follow Michael on twitter: @windycityiggy
