Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart was suspended six games this week for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy, prompting him to release a statement shortly after the news broke.
Via his Instagram story, Stewart apologized to the fanbase and organization. He also expressed his surprise that he had violated the policy. Here’s a look at his full statement (h/t Joel A. Erickson).
I want to apologize to the National Football League, the Colts organization, my teammates, our fans, and my family. I was surprised and disappointed to learn I had violated the policy. I respect the integrity of the game and would never purposefully put myself or the team in this kind of situation. I am responsible for what I put in my body, an dI should have taken the proper steps to educate myself. I will learn from this moving forward, and I will take the approproate measures to ensure this never happens again.
It’s a disappointing development considering how much Stewart means both on the field and in the locker room. Few players are held in higher regard than Stewart, and he has been known as a person with extremely high character since he entered the league in 2017.
On the field, Stewart’s absence will be massive. He’s one of the best interior run defenders in the NFL, and the Colts probably don’t have a viable replacement for him on the roster.
Stewart is eligible to return to the active roster following the Week 13 game against the Tennessee Titans.
