Patriots WR Julian Edelman Speaks Out On Possible Suspension

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman has broken his silence on reports that he faces a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance enhancing substance policy.

Edelman posted a message on his Instagram account Friday, which in part stated, "I am very sorry - I don't know what happened. I've taken many, many tests obviously over the course of my career, and nothing like this has ever happened. I apologize to the Kraft Family, my coaches, teammates, and fans."

Edleman went on to confirm that he is appealing the four-game ban and could not speak any further on the matter.

Edelman has been a regular at this season's organized team activities and minicamp. He hasn't played in a game since tearing his ACL during a preseason contest against the Detroit Lions last year.

While it's not easy to win an appeal, it has been done before. Former Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman was able to reverse his suspension in 2012.

If the appeal is denied, Edelman will miss the following games:

• Week 1: Sept. 9 vs. Houston Texans, 1 p.m.
• Week 2: Sept. 16 at Jacksonville Jaguars, 4:25 p.m.
• Week 3: Sept. 23 at Detroit Lions, 8:20 p.m. (Sunday Night Football)
• Week 4: Sept. 30 vs. Miami Dolphins, 1 p.m.

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