When you read of a professional athlete being suspended from their respective sport for violation of drug policy you’re somewhat naive if your mind does not automatically go to performance enhancing drugs. Luckily for fans of the Denver Broncos, linebacker Von Miller’s violation does not fall under that umbrella of offenses. Unluckily, Miller will miss the first 6 games of the season due to suspension.
Miller’s suspension was issued without a positive test, meaning that he was not found to have taken any banned substance. Instead, his actions fall under the category of “Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse” in the NFL testing guidelines. Such offenses include refusing to be tested, missing a test, and providing a diluted urine sample for a test. Exactly what Miller is guilty of has not been released.
The suspension may derail what was a possible run to the Superbowl for the Broncos. The silver lining is that Miller will return during the season; the NFL had sought a longer suspension.
In a statement Miller apologized for his actions:
“I made mistakes and my suspension has hurt my team, Broncos fans, and myself. I am especially sorry for the effect of my bad decisions on others. I will not make the same mistakes about adhering to the policy in the future. During my time off the field, I will work tirelessly and focus exclusively on remaining in peak shape. I look forward to contributing immediately upon my return to the field and bringing a championship back to the people of Denver.”
If the Broncos can manage without the former 2nd pick in the NFL draft then Miller might return and put them over the top. If not, he could be facing a great deal of blame. Either way, it is assuring that one of the NFL’s best young players didn’t put his career in jeopardy with PEDs and that he is taking his punishment gracefully.