Harrison Admits, Apologizes, Doesn't Specify
Rodney Harrison just concluded a conference call in which he confirmed that he will be suspended for the first four games of the NFL season.
There was no Q&A. Here's my transcription of the call (fortunately, Rodney speaks deliberately.
"I'm here to let you all know tomorrow that tomorrow the commissioner will announce I've been suspended by the NFL for violating the league policy on banned substances. My suspension will be for four games.
"I want to make it clear that not once did I ever use steroids. I did admit to the commissioner commish that I did in fact use a banned substance. My purpose wasn't to gain a competitive edge but solely to accelearate the healing process of injuries sustained while playing football. I haven't made excuses nor will I. I made a mistake and I'm very sorry for that."
"I understand I'm a role model to high school, college and young kids. I don't condone my decision or behavior. I'm embarrassed and disappointed in myself. To any high school, college or youth athlete, I sent the wrong message. I don't want to be giving a messge for them to jeopardize their health. They always have to love themselves.
"At this time I'd like to ask (the media), this is a mistake and something I've done. It's nothing my teammates are involved in and ask for the respect of my teammates not to be violated. This is something Rodney Harrison did and Rodney Harrison did alone. As they prepare forthe Jets, San Diego and the games after that I ask you to give them respect and not to badger them with questions.
"I will be absent from the team for four weeks, at which time I will return and hope to help the team any way I can to win a championship. It's been a tough time for me the last week or two. I apologize to my family and friends and I'd like to apologize to my teammates. They never were involved in this. This is something I did and I apologize for being a distraction. It's the last thing we need going into the season.
"I apologize to the New England Patriots organization and the fans who have supported me faithfully. I'm not taking any quesitons and I ask you to respect my teammates and family.
"Thank you."
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Drilling deeply into the mantle layer of America's Passion, NBCSports.com's Tom Curran offers up quick hits and insights on all things NFL.
Too bad. The prototypical gladiator has made a huge mistake. The motive to heal faster and heal more assuredly has cost him in a big way. What were you thinking Rodney? Tough, tough, tough.
At least he took it like a man. But the Shxthxxd fans that hate the Patriots will act as if he was an accomplice to a murder....or, had possesion of illegal firearms....or, was sending porn to other people in his office and around the league..... Take a breath everyone and let the man pay his dues. He will be back.