Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller has been suspended for six games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, according to reports from NFL Network. 9News reported the suspension will cost Miller $806,162 in lost pay, and that he will not be allowed to practice with the team or attend games while serving it.
Reports said a diluted sample was behind the latest violation. Miller said in a statement through the NFL Players Association that the suspension did not come from a positive test, and that “there is no excuse for my violations of the rules.” 9News also reported that Miller has been part of the league’s substance abuse program since his rookie season in 2011.
Separately, 9News reported that Miller has been listed as a potential witness in the case of defendant Lewis, who is charged in connection with the October 2012 killings of five people at Fero’s Bar and Grill in Denver. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against Lewis, and two other defendants have already pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. According to the report, Miller has no direct connection to Lewis, and prosecutors listed him only as a lay witness.
The suspension covers the first six games of the season. Miller is expected to be eligible to return afterward.
SOURCE: 9News
