Baltimore Ravens' Haloti Ngata suspended over PED use

  • Defensive tackle admits use of Aderall
  • News hits team chasing playoff spot
Haloti Ngata
Haloti Ngata (right) is an integral part of the Ravens defense. Photograph: Getty Images

The Baltimore Ravens’ defensive tackle Haloti Ngata will miss the rest of the regular season after violating the NFL’s PED policy.

Ngata confirmed he had tested positive for Aderall and will serve a four-game ban. “I made a mistake, and I own this,” Ngata said in a statement. “I took Adderall and take full responsibility for doing this. I am deeply sorry and broken up over this. I let down my family, my team-mates, Ravens fans and myself. My hope is that the Ravens make the playoffs, and I believe they can do this. And, then I can come back and help us win.”

The news is a huge blow for the Ravens, who are 7-5 in the AFC North and chasing a playoff place. Ngata, a five-time Pro Bowler, is one of the cornerstones of the Ravens defense – a unit that has already been hit by injuries.

“This is disappointing news for the Ravens,” the team’s general manager, Ozzie Newsome, said. “We are disappointed with Haloti, but no more than he is with himself.”

Ngata will be allowed to return on 29 December, meaning he could play for the Ravens should they make the playoffs.