Patriots linebacker Brandon Spikes was suspended for the remainder of the regular season after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug, the league announced Friday. Spikes, 23, did not appeal the decision and would be eligible for the playoffs.
"The substance was a medication that I should have gotten clarification on before taking," Spikes said in a statement. "It was not a performance enhancer or an illegal drug. The integrity of the game is very important to me. I understand the league's ruling and apologize to my teammates, the fans and the Patriots organization for this mistake."
Brandon Spikes Suspended By NFL
NFL spokesman Greg Aiello would not name the drug Spikes tested positive for, as per league policy. A first-year pro, Spikes played his college ball at Florida.
In the Patriots' rout of the Jets Monday night, Spikes recorded his first career interception, picking off Mark Sanchez's pass intended for Braylon Edwards in the third quarter. New England took over and scored on the ensuing drive to go up 31-3.
Spikes has 61 tackles this season, which is fourth on the Patriots.
Brandon Spikes Suspended By NFL
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