When the Denver Broncos mistakenly released pass rusher Elvis Dumervil this offseason, All-Pro linebacker Von Miller was expected to shoulder an even larger burden in 2013. He has been suspended by the NFL for four games, though, for violating the league's drug policy.
The NFL Players Association has told reporters that the suspension is not for steroids, which has led to speculation that Miller has recently used marijuana or amphetamines. Miller tested positive for both of those substances in his rookie season.
Miller is appealing the suspension, but to earn the four-game ban in the first place a player must test positive twice for the same substance.
"I have filed an appeal with the NFL, obviously. I can touch on more detail whenever the subject is resolved," said Miller. "Obviously, I respect those guys (at the NFL). They have a hard job with all the stuff that is going around. And out of respect for that whole situation I can't really elaborate on too many details."
Broncos head coach John Fox addressed the matter as well, saying:
"First of all let me make one thing perfectly clear, that we are aware of the reports," Fox said when asked about Miller. "Due to confidentiality, we can't report, but I can sit here and tell you here as of right now when we start camp, every one of our players is eligible, there are no suspensions and that is the way we will start the season."
In addition to being named a First Team All-Pro last season, Miller is a two-time Pro Bowler and 2011 Defensive Rookie of the Year. He has 30 career sacks in just two seasons, including 18.5 last year. He recorded one interception in 2012, which was returned for a touchdown, forced six fumbles, and made 133 tackles.
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