For the second time in eight days, one of the Chicago Bears' biggest contributors has been suspended four games by the NFL for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing drugs.
This week, it's inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman, the team's leading tackler through 10 games. Last week, leading receiver Alshon Jeffery was hit with that punishment.
As if anything else could go worse for a team that dropped to 2-8 with Sunday's 22-16 loss to the Giants.
"Much like Alshon, I'm very disappointed," coach John Fox said. "These guys understand all the parameters of the drug testing involved in our league. But much like Alshon, we move on and we'll move on without Jerrell."
Freeman issued a statement via his Twitter account on Monday afternoon.
"I would like to apologize to my coaches, teammates, the Bears organization and Bears fans for the embarrassment I've caused myself and them. I made a mistake with my prescription medication for which I take full responsibility. As players in the NFL, we're educated on the parameters regarding substances which go into our bodies and I've prided myself on doing the right thing throughout my career. I look forward to getting back on the playing field in four weeks and finishing the season on a positive note."
The Bears' second high-profile PED suspension in eight days prompted Fox to be asked whether the organization has a PED problem.
"Obviously it puts us in a tough spot," he said. "That's why you usually see apologies. I think they understand that, and it's obviously a mistake and one they typically regret."
