Chicago Bears linebacker Jerrell Freeman has been suspended without pay for the next four games for violating the NFL policy on performance-enhancing drugs, the team announced Monday.
Freeman, 30, has started every game at inside linebacker for the Bears this season, posting 69 tackles and three pass deflections. He will be eligible to return on Monday, Dec. 19 after the team’s Week 15 matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
Freeman released a statement, via Twitter:
I would like to apologize to my coaches, teammates, the Bears organization and Bears fans for the embarrassment I’ve caused myself and to them. I made a mistake with my prescription medication for which I take full responsibility. As players in the NFL we’re educated on the parameters regarding substances which go into our bodies and I’ve prided myself on doing the right thing throughout my career. I look forward to getting back on the playing field in four weeks and finishing the season on a positive note.
Freeman is the second Bears player to be suspended for PEDs in the last week, joining wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, who was suspended last Monday.
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