Patriots' Edelman apologizes for alleged PED violation

New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman apologized Friday, one day after reports emerged that he faces a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Edelman indicated the matter is under appeal. He said he doesn't know how the alleged violation occurred.

"I am very sorry -- I don't know what happened," Edelman wrote on his Instagram account. "I've taken many, many tests obviously over the course of my career, and nothing like this has ever happened. I apologize to [team owners] the Kraft family, my coaches, teammates and fans.

"As this matter is being appealed, I can't say anymore but no matter what, I will be ready to play and pursue another championship with our team and for Patriots fans around the world."

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Edelman missed all of last season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee sustained in the preseason.

The 32-year-old has been on the field during the Patriots' mandatory minicamp this week after previously attending voluntary OTAs.

If suspended, Edelman would forfeit roughly $470,588 of his $2 million base salary this season. He would miss contests against the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions and Miami Dolphins before being eligible to rejoin the team on Oct. 1.

Edelman has 425 catches for 4,540 yards and 24 touchdowns in his nine NFL seasons.

--Field Level Media

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