The Baltimore Ravens will have to make their playoff push without arguably their best defensive player. Star defensive lineman Haloti Ngata has been suspended for four games by the NFL for violating the league's policies regarding performance enhancing substances.
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The NFL released a statement that was quick and to the point regarding the suspension, explaining that Ngata will be suspended four games without pay. The suspension will prevent Ngata from playing again during the regular season, as the Ravens have only four games remaining.
Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome released a statement following the news: "This is disappointing news for the Ravens. We are disappointed with Haloti, but no more than he is with himself."
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Ngata also released a statement expressing regret over the situation: "I made a mistake and I own this. I took Adderall and take full responsibility for doing this. I am deeply sorry and broken up over this." Ngata goes on to say that he hopes the Ravens make the playoffs so that he can take the field again this season.
Ravens announce four-game PED suspension for star DT Haloti Ngata. Statements from team, player and league ... pic.twitter.com/CvNcYsgqy4
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) December 4, 2014
The suspension comes at an unfortunate time for the Ravens, who are coming off a close loss to the San Diego Chargers. The loss dropped the Ravens to 7-5, and they are currently on the outside of the playoff picture thanks to various tiebreaking measures.
Baltimore was hoping that a strong stretch run would allow them to make the playoffs as a wild card, or possibly catch the Cincinnati Bengals for the AFC North crown.
That path just became harder after the loss of their best defensive lineman. Ngata is a former Pro Bowler that was regarded as a stout run defender and an above-average pass rusher, giving the Ravens great stability on the defensive line. They will have to find a replacement quickly, as they face the 7-5 Miami Dolphins on Sunday in a game that will seriously affect the playoff chances for both teams.
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