Patrick Peterson Suspended Six Games for Violating NFL's Performance-Enhancing Drug Policy
Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson has been suspended six games for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy, the Cardinals announced on Thursday.
According to the team, Peterson will not appeal the suspension. The eight-time Pro Bowl corner is set to miss his first game in his NFL career after starting all 128 games in his eight seasons.
“Patrick recognizes how disappointing this is for everyone in the organization as well as our fans," the Cardinals said in a statement. "As we all do, he understands that regardless of intent he is ultimately responsible for everything he puts in his body. Our coaching staff and our players are now aware that we will have to play the first six games without Patrick and they understand they have to rise to the challenge that it presents."
On Thursday, Peterson spoke with the media about the suspension before an event for his foundation.
Peterson, 28, has been the center of trade rumors this offseason after he requested a trade back in October 2018. Peterson previously said he "desperately" wanted out of Arizona, who finished the 2018 season 3–13.
Peterson has two years left on his contract and is set to make a base salary of $11 million this season and $12.05 million in 2020. This six-game suspension is set to cost Peterson $3,882,352 in lost wages.
Peterson, a three-time All-Pro, is entering his ninth NFL season. Arizona drafted him with the No. 5 pick in 2011 out of LSU.
In his first seven years in the league, Peterson had 21 interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries. He has also excelled as a returner throughout his career, leading the NFL with four punt return touchdowns his rookie season.
Peterson recorded 54 tackles and two interceptions in 2018. He won't be eligible to return until Oct. 20 against the New York Giants.
