Los Angeles (AFP) - New England Patriots player Rob Ninkovich said Friday he has been suspended for four games after failing a drug test.
The 32-year-old defensive end told ESPN he had failed the test after unwittingly consuming a banned substance in an over-the-counter supplement.
The National Football League has yet to formally issue a statement on the case.
"Few things are more important to me than my name and reputation. This might call that into question for some, which has me heartbroken," Ninkovich told ESPN.
"I don't want to cut any corners.