Von Miller Suspension a Reality: Denver Broncos Star Banned for Six Games, Apologizes But Insists He Didn't Have a Positive Test

Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller borrowed a page from the Jason Giambi school of apologies in discussing his six-game suspension, which the NFL made official Tuesday.

USA Today reported that the six-game ban is the result of negotiations between the NFL, Miller's lawyers and the NFL Players Association after the league found Miller in violation of the league's substance abuse program this offseason, according to an unnamed source.

"Von Miller of the Denver Broncos has been suspended without pay for the first six games of the 2013 regular season for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse," the NFL said in a statement, as reported by CBSSports.com. "Miller will be eligible to return to the Broncos' active roster on Monday, October 14 following the team's October 13 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars."

Miller apologized for his violation but added that the violation was not a positive test for drugs.

"The Substances of Abuse policy requires everyone to comply with the rules. Although my suspension doesn't result from a positive test, there is no excuse for my violations of the rules," Miller said in a statement as reported by CBSSports.com. "I made mistakes and my suspension has hurt my team, Broncos fans, and myself. I am especially sorry for the effect of my bad decisions on others. I will not make the same mistakes about adhering to the policy in the future. During my time off the field, I will work tirelessly and focus exclusively on remaining in peak shape.

"I look forward to contributing immediately upon my return to the field and bringing a championship back to the people of Denver."

The admission is akin to New York Yankees first baseman Jason Giambi apologizing in February of 2005 but not saying what the apology was for. It had been reported earlier that he had testified to a grand jury that he admitted to taking steroids.

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