Redskins receiver Santana Moss could be suspended by the NFL, even if he hasn’t tested positive for any performance enhancing drugs.
Moss only has been linked to Canadian doctor Anthony Galea, who is charged with smuggling drugs, including human growth hormone, into the United States. But if Moss, or any other player, is found to have possessed or taken HGH, then he would be suspended, likely for four games.
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One former player union rep said the NFL Players Association likely would fight a suspension without a positive drug test.
However, this player said, “cheating is cheating and if they can prove he purchased illegal performance enhancers, that would put the union in a tough spot … Most players in the league are getting tired of cheating. We all want a clean game.”
Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said of a possible suspension, “I think we’re getting a little ahead of ourselves. Let’s just wait … If someone is guilty of something they pay the price. But we’ll let the due process take care of itself. And as we talked about before, let’s not think the guys is guilty just because his name has been thrown [out there].”
The NFL has suspended players before who did not test positive, including New England Patriots safety Rodney Harrison in 2007. He admitted to using HGH. Dallas assistant coach Wade Wilson, former quarterback Tim Couch and ex-Redskins defensive lineman Kenard Lang also were suspended for HGH use.
The league released a statement that read in part, “When we have had evidence of illegal purchase, possession, or use of HGH, we have imposed discipline and are fully prepared to do so again if the facts support it.”
Moss has told federal investigators that he did not knowingly use HGH. But if he somehow were suspended, it would rob the Redskins of their top receiver. They recently signed veteran Joey Galloway, who could fill a similar role as Moss because of his speed.
Shanahan said he would simply treat it the same way he does if a player is hurt.
“If a person went out and sprained his ankle on the first play, they’re gone for the year,” he said, “and if you do something wrong you pay the price. We understand the rules of the NFL.”
