Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart was suspended six games without pay by the NFL for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy, the league announced Tuesday.
Stewart has turned into one of the premier run defenders among interior defensive tackles over the last few seasons, making his absence a noteworthy one.
He is eligible to return to the active roster Dec. 4, following the Week 13 game against the Tennessee Titans.
In six games (all starts), Stewart has recorded 20 tackles (13 solo), two tackles for loss and five quarterback hits. According to Pro Football Focus, Stewart recorded 12 run stops through six games, tied for the eighth-highest mark among interior defensive tackles.
With Stewart unavailable for the next six games, it’s likely the Colts will lean on Eric Johnson and Taven Bryan to fill the role. It’s also possible they look to bring in a veteran free agent known for stopping the run.
Regardless, this is a brutal blow to the defense as Stewart has been an integral part of the front seven.
