UPDATE: This is from Cushing's Agent...
The statement, issued through his agent Tom Condon, reads:
"I was substance-tested randomly by the NFL during the 2009 season. The results of those tests indicated the presence of a non-steroidal banned substance. The League acted to suspend me based on those results, which I challenged in my appeal of the suspension. I believe we presented compelling evidence during the appeal process to challenge the test results, and I disagree with and am disappointed by the suspension. Bound by the decision of the League, I regret the situation it presents to the Texans’ organization, my teammates, and our fans. My dedication to a championship season in 2010 continues undeterred."
I would be interested in hearing just what a "non-steroidal banned substance" is. Cough Syrup? Somebody educate me.
Look, I have a problem with 'roids, but if this is how Cush wants to treat his body then that is on him...better than drinking and driving like Rey did.
Just Sayin'....
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, former USC and current Houston Texans linebacker has been suspended four games in 2010 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. From ESPN:
The Houston Texans' defense took a major blow Friday when defensive rookie of the year Brian Cushing learned he is being suspended four games for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances.
Cushing appealed the league's decision at a hearing at the NFL scouting combine in February but was informed Friday his appeal had been rejected, according to sources.
Cushing will be allowed to participate in training camp with the Texans this summer, but then will serve his four game suspension to start the 2010 regular season.
Texans general manager Rick Smith says the team is "disappointed" to learn of the suspension.
This shouldn't come as a big shock even for Trojan fans. After all, Cushing, as well as Clay Matthews, reportedly tested positive for steroids at the 2009 NFL Scouting, although the report was never confirmed. In short, Cushing and steroids had been linked before.
In terms of his NFL career, however, these latest circumstances should have little to no impact on his future. In 2006, the Chargers' Shawne Merriman was suspended for four games for a similar violation before going on to play in the Pro Bowl and remain one of the top players in the league. Cushing, who was named NFL rookie of the year ago, should be able to move on and have a productive career.
What's mostly frustrating about Cushing's positive test is the fact that we'll have to hear more Ting and Cushing jokes from the folks across town over the coming days. It's time for most of the Trojan bashers to wake up and realize that most college teams have a group of players using performance enhancing drugs. It's not a huge part of the culture, but it is there so when players get busted, don't be too surprised. Not that it excuses Cushing, but for their sake, it is important to note that not all cheating violations in college athletics are committed by USC student-athletes.