The NFL receives too much criticism on its existing anti-doping policy but they still want to prove that the policy on performance enhancing drugs is implemented effectively. This could be measured by the continued issuance of suspensions to erring players. Although, the sanctions may not be a total deterrent for steroid use, it would at least give warnings to those people who are trying to increase performance with the help of steroids and other drugs. And of course, it will have a great effect on the career of players caught using banned substances.

Recently, the NFL handed down an 8-game suspension to nose tackle Jason Ferguson for violating the steroid policy of the league. Ferguson, who last played with the Miami Dolphins, will be missing the first 8 games of the next season. Greg Aiello, NFL spokesperson, confirmed it to the media last Sunday but he did not elaborate on the specifics of the penalty. There are no details on the particular banned substance that caused Ferguson’s suspension. The media called Ferguson’s agent, Jimmy Sexton but did not return any call to at least give more information on the issue.

The recent suspension of Jason Ferguson for violating the anti-doping policy of the league is not the first one. In 1999, the NFL suspended him for 4 games for failing a drug test. His urine sample showed that he took an anabolic steroid. Ferguson never admitted that he took anabolic steroids that time. He said that he was taking dietary supplements but it does not contain any steroid. “People are thinking I’m a drug addict or something like that, and that’s ridiculous. I read bottles and I know steroids. I didn’t take no damn steroids,” Ferguson said in defending himself during that time. In 1997, he was also tested positive for marijuana at the scouting combine according to the report of AP.

The Miami Dolphins released him as a free agent last Friday. Ferguson’s status is now in limbo but it is expected that many teams will be interested in getting him into their rooster. His performance for the Dolphins is impressive before he met an injury late last year. He tore his quadriceps tendon last November and underwent a surgery a few days later. His doctor recommended eight-months rehabilitation for his injury. He allowed Dolphins to 93.7 rushing yards as compared with 135.6 rushing yards without him. He also made 23 tackles in nine games for the Dolphins last season.

The Miami Dolphins refused to comment on the suspension of Ferguson. “We won’t comment because he’s not officially on our roster,” said Harvey Greene, Dolphins spokesperson. He remains as a free agent and they did not confirm if they will still re-sign a new contract next season for Ferguson.

Meanwhile, Offensive lineman Ryan Tucker of the Cleveland Browns was also reported having a failed steroids test which could be the cause of his retirement. An 8 game suspension will be imposed next season if the veteran continues to play in the league. Although media reports can’t provide more details on his alleged positive steroid test. In an interview with WKNR radio, he said that he will be focusing more on his family after his retirement. “We notified the league and we are notifying the Cleveland Browns family that I’m shutting it down. It’s time for me to go ahead and hang up the cleats and starting being a daddy and a husband. I’m going that route,” Tucker said.

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