Calvin Pace suspended for PEDs
The NFL announced
today that Jets linebacker Calvin Pace, a prized free agent acquisition last year, has been suspended without pay for the first four games for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances.
Pace's suspension begins on Saturday, September 5. He is eligible to return to the Jets’ active roster on Monday, October 5 following the team’s October 4 game against the New Orleans Saints.
Pace is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games.
Pace explained in a statement released by the Jets that he took a dietary supplement that contained a banned substance. He did not identify the supplement.
"This is a situation that resulted from an over-the-counter dietary supplement that contained a substance that I did not know violated the League’s policy," Pace said. "I am responsible for what I put into my body and I should have paid closer attention to the league’s guidelines. I regret that this has happened and apologize to my teammates, the entire Jets organization as well as the fans. Hopefully, this does not distract from our ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl."
The Jets said in a statement: "We respect the League’s decision and look forward to Calvin’s return for our Monday Night game at Miami."
Pace signed a six-year, $42 million contract in 2008. The deal included a signing bonus of $20 million. Pace was a first-round pick of the Cardinals in 2003.
Last year, Pace had 80 tackles, including seven sacks, and five forced fumbles.
Patrick E. McCarthy, Newsday
E-mail
Facebook
Digg
Delicious
Comments (1)
Bob,
This could be a big set back for the Jets. I will give Pace slack but he really shoud;ve known better. Its hard enough to get a new system installed and have them all on the same page by the opener. They probably won't start to jell to the 2nd qt. of the season. But to have to play the Saints,Pats and Texans with basically a rookie OLB could be difficult. I really like Murrell's potential and think he could fill in fine. Trusnik also can help out. But lets face it Pace is a very good player who will only be better with Scott on the field and Rex's attacking style. So now they have to approach camp in a different way. Even though Pace can practice and play in the preseason games Murrell,Trusnik and Gholston really have to get most of the reps with the 1st team unit. Bob i still think we will see Gholston with his hands in the ground and playing DE on passing situations.Well there is now an empty spot at OLB. Lets see somebody step up and fill in.