The Buffalo Bills are facing scrutiny following the announcement that two of their recent defensive acquisitions, defensive end Michael Hoecht and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, have been suspended for six games each due to violations of the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug (PED) policy.
General Manager Brandon Beane disclosed that while the team was aware of Hoecht’s impending suspension prior to finalizing his three-year, $21 million contract, Ogunjobi’s positive test came as an unexpected development during routine medical evaluations. Ogunjobi, who signed a one-year deal worth $8.3 million, attributed his positive result to a contaminated dietary supplement and has accepted responsibility for the infraction.
Under the NFL’s PED policy, a first-time offense involving anabolic agents results in a six-game suspension without pay. Both Hoecht and Ogunjobi will participate in offseason programs but must remain away from team facilities during the first four weeks of the regular season, becoming eligible to return to game action after serving their six-game suspensions.
The timing of these suspensions has sparked criticism regarding the NFL’s communication protocols. Currently, when a player tests positive for a banned substance, only the individual and their current team are notified, leaving potential suitors uninformed during free agency negotiations. This lack of transparency can lead to teams inadvertently signing players who are facing imminent suspensions, as was the case with Ogunjobi and the Bills.
This situation has prompted discussions about the need for the NFL to reevaluate its disclosure policies to ensure that all teams have access to pertinent information regarding player eligibility, thereby fostering a more equitable environment during free agency.
In response to these developments, the Bills may need to reassess their defensive lineup for the upcoming season. With Hoecht and Ogunjobi unavailable for the initial six games, the team could explore additional free-agent signings or adjust their draft strategy to bolster the defensive front. Beane has indicated a willingness to consider bringing back veteran edge rusher Von Miller, who was released prior to free agency, provided the contractual terms are favorable.
The Bills’ predicament underscores the broader challenges teams face in navigating player acquisitions amid the complexities of league policies and the importance of comprehensive due diligence during the signing process.
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