Julian Edelman has yet to offer an explanation for why he tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance, and apparently the NFL does not have any specific answers yet, either.
According to Albert Breer of The MMQB, testers were not immediately able to identify the substance that triggered Edelman’s positive test two months ago. The sample is still being analyzed by scientists. Breer also notes that the timing of the positive test indicates it was not triggered by a stimulant like Adderall, as Edelman tested positive for a PED. During the offseason, stimulants like Adderall — which players often blame their failed tests on — are considered substances of abuse rather than PEDs.
The specific substance does not necessarily need to be identified in order for a player to test positive under the NFL’s drug testing policy. As we have seen numerous times, players often fail tests because of the presence of masking agents or diluted samples.
Edelman released a statement on Friday in which he apologized for the four-game suspension but said he has no idea how he tested positive. He may know which substance he took that triggered the test, but the NFL apparently does not yet.
