All-Pro defensive tackle Gerald McCoy has just been slapped with a 6-game suspension for breaking the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy … and he’s blaming it all on a doctor’s prescription.
The 33-year-old Las Vegas Raiders star — who is currently out for the season with a knee injury — released a statement addressing the news Wednesday afternoon … saying it was an “honest mistake” but takes full responsibility for the violation.
“It is with great disappointment that I recently learned I tested positive for a banned substance — something I was prescribed to take to help with scar tissue and tendon strength from a previous injury,” McCoy said.
“In no way would I ever intentionally take anything to help with performance or gain a competitive advantage.”
Of course, McCoy was a problem for offenses for years … but has recently dealt with a number of injuries that have kept him off the field.
McCoy — the #3 overall pick in 2010 — says he has nothing but respect for the sport and would never take a shortcut to success … apologizing to his family, the league, his team and the fans for the hiccup.
As for the suspension, McCoy will serve his punishment while sidelined with the injury.