Charlotte, NC (My Sportsbook) - Carolina Panthers rookie defensive end Julius Peppers, the NFL's current leader in sacks this season, tested positive for an over-the-counter banned substance, and has been suspended for four games, according to his agent. The Charlotte Observer reported Thursday that Peppers, who has recorded 10 sacks, had an abnormal test result, and a second test on the same urine specimen will be performed in the next few days. Peppers has appealed the suspension and is eligible to keep playing while the appeal is pending. Suspension hearings are normally held on Tuesday's. If the suspension stands, Peppers will begin serving it immediately. "My understanding is he will be our starting left end Sunday," Panthers head coach John Fox said after practice on Thursday. "That's where all of my focus is and his is, too, on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers." Panthers defensive tackle Brentson Buckner is currently serving a four-game suspension for taking a dietary supplement, which violated the same league policy. |
