Giants Lineman Eric Herman Suspended For Violating NFL's PED Policy
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) — New York Giants backup offensive lineman Eric Herman was suspended for the first four games of the season for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy.
Herman said in a statement Friday that he tested positive for a stimulant. He said he has a therapeutic use exemption for a different stimulant that treats the same condition, but not for the one he tested positive for.
The 6-foot-4, 320-pound Herman was listed as a third-string center, so his chances of making the team were already small. Now they're even worse.
The 24-year-old spent most of last year on the practice squad after the Giants drafted him in the seventh round out of Ohio. He was added to the roster for the season finale but did not play.
In a statement released by the NFL Players Association, Herman said that "the rules are very strict so I am taking responsibility for my mistake."
"I sincerely apologize to my teammates and coaches. I will not make the same mistake in the future, and I will spend the four weeks working hard to be ready to return to work," he added.
Several NFL players in recent years have blamed positive drug tests on stimulants such as Adderall used to treat ADHD. The league doesn't reveal which substance a player tested positive for.
Herman was inadvertently involved in one of the Giants' biggest stories of training camp. During a drill July 29, running back David Wilson caught a pass and accidentally ran with his head lowered into Herman's back. That latest neck injury for Wilson led him to retire.
Herman missed the Giants' first preseason game last Sunday with a hip injury. He's eligible to practice and play during the preseason.
The Giants were off Friday. They host the Pittsburgh Steelers in their second preseason game Saturday.
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