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Reports: Broncos' Wes Welker Suspended 4 Games For Drug Use

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Wes Welker is in a bad way right now.

In the midst of recovering from his third concussion in 10 months, the veteran wide receiver was reportedly suspended four games by the NFL on Tuesday for violating the league's drug policy.

According to Pro Football Talk, the five-time Pro Bowler took MDMA that was cut with amphetamines while at the Kentucky Derby and tested positive in May.

Welker last played for the Denver Broncos in last year's Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium. The next time he'll be eligible to play will also be at MetLife, against the Jets on Oct. 12. Welker will serve his suspension leading into Week 5, when the Broncos have their bye.

The news didn't come as a shock to the Broncos. They apparently knew about the positive test for weeks, but were holding out hope during the appeals process, Fox NFL insider Jay Glazer reported.

Welker, 33, has enjoyed a stellar 10-year career, recording 841 receptions, 9,358 yards and 48 touchdowns. He enjoyed five 110-plus-catch seasons as Tom Brady's primary target with the New England Patriots before leaving for the Broncos via free agency following the 2012 season.

The 5-foot-9, 185-pound slot receiver extraordinaire out of Texas Tech had 73 catches for 778 yards and 10 TDs in 13 games for the Broncos last season. He missed the final three regular season games due to a concussion.

Welker had 8 catches for 84 yards in Denver's 43-8 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in last season's Super Bowl.

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