Positive tests reportedly to result in suspensions On Friday, left tackle Trent Williams sat at his locker and discussed a season that had turned around for him, from inconsistent to solid.
“This season’s been far better than last season,” he said. “My leadership stepped up a lot.”
Recommended Stories
He might not think that way anymore. According to multiple reports, both Williams and tight end Fred Davis will be suspended by the NFL — possibly Monday — for multiple violations of the league’s substance abuse policy.
The Redskins would not confirm the report, saying it’s a private matter between the league and the players involved.
“I’ve received no information about it, so I can’t comment on it at this time,” Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said.
But league and team sources said the Redskins expect to hear something concrete on Monday. According to Sports Illustrated, which broke the story, both players failed at least three drug tests.
There was a grace period because of the lockout in the offseason for players who tested positive. But both Davis and Williams tested positive during the season as well. The report said both were able to play vs. the New York Jets because they had not yet received written notification of their suspensions.
Williams and Davis were hustled out of the locker room before the media were allowed in following Sunday’s 34-19 loss.
“Guys have to be accountable,” said Redskins linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, also a team captain. “We know the rules, and whatever comes out comes out. It’s a shame. These are two significant players on our team. Fred’s having a Pro Bowl caliber year. It’s definitely going to hurt us.”
If true, this is a big blow for both players as well as the Redskins. It removes two of their top players offensively at a time when they had just started to gain momentum. But it also impacts them financially. Davis is a pending free agent and was hoping to cash in after a good season. However, if he tests positive another time, then Davis would be done for a year. That will make it difficult for him to land a good contract.
Meanwhile, losing four games would cost Williams approximately $1.9 million in salary.
Davis has caught a team-best 59 catches for 796 yards and three touchdowns.
“People make mistakes,” Redskins nose tackle Barry Cofield said. “All we can do is move on.”
