Eagles Confirm Lane Johnson Suspension
Lane Johnson has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the regular season, the Eagles confirmed Wednesday.
Johnson is eligible to return to the active roster on Monday, September 29 following the team’s September 28 game against the San Francisco 49ers.
“In April while training, I mistakenly and foolishly put a prescribed medication in my body to help with a medical issue. I mistakenly failed to clear it with Eagles trainers and check the NFL list of banned substances. I am extremely sorry for this mistake and I will learn from it and be smarter in the future.
“I would like to sincerely apologize to Mr. Lurie, Howie Roseman, Coach Kelly and his staff, my teammates and our amazing Philadelphia Eagles fans. This will be very hard on me to not be battling with my teammates for four games – but I will be ready and better than ever when I return.”
Paul Domowitch reported the failed drug test over three weeks ago. An appeals process is the likely reason for the delayed announcement.
“We’re very disappointed to learn of his suspension,” said the Eagles through a statement. “We have spoken to Lane about the details of the suspension. He understood what he did wrong and took full responsibility. The key for him, however, is to learn from that mistake and move forward with his preparation for the 2014 season.”
The Eagles report Friday. Suspended players are eligible to participate in training camp and preseason games, so Johnson should be there regardless. Per NFL rules, the suspension begins upon the posting of the final rosters. Once suspended, “the player will not be paid, nor may he participate in team activities, use the Club’s facilities or have contact with any Club officials except to arrange off-site medical treatment.
“In addition to the suspension imposed on him, any player suspended for a violation of the Policy will be ineligible for selection to the Pro Bowl, or to receive any other honors or awards from the League or the NFL Players Association, for the season in which the violation is upheld (i.e., following any appeals) and in which the suspension is served.”
Allen Barbre is expected to get the nod at right tackle while Johnson serves his suspension.