Carolina Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson has been suspended for four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.
Following is a press release from the Carolina Panthers.
Defensive end Charles Johnson has been suspended for the Panthers’ next four games, according to a statement released by an NFL spokesperson Friday.
“Charles Johnson of the Carolina Panthers has been suspended without pay for the team’s next four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Johnson’s suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return to the Panthers’ active roster on Monday, December 25 following the team’s December 24 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.”
Johnson released a statement:
“I accept full responsibility. I have been recovering from back surgery, dealing with the daily grind of football and mistakenly thought this could help. It was an error in judgement on my part. We have a special group here I wanted to be a part of and felt an obligation to do my part by getting back as soon as possible. I have always prided myself on being a person who does things the right way through hard work, dedication and sacrifice. I want to apologize to my team, Mr. Richardson and Panthers fans for this mistake. Regretfully I have disappointed people, but I promise to come back ready to redeem myself when this suspension is over.”
Johnson has played for the Panthers since coming into the league as the 83rd pick in the 2007 NFL draft. He signed a two-year, $9.5 million contract extension with Carolina in March.
In his 10-year NFL career, Johnson has recorded 67.5 sacks with 326 combined tackles, 17 forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries. He has played all 11 games for the Panthers so far this season totaling 16 combined tackles.
