Denver Broncos

Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe suspended four games

Updated Mar. 5, 2020 12:44 a.m. ET

foxsports

Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe was suspended for the first four games of the regular season for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances, the NFL announced Friday.

Wolfe, who is entering his fourth season, played in 16 games last season, compiling 35 tackles and 1.5 sacks. He has 11.5 sacks in his career.

Here is the full text of his statement:

"Please allow me to offer my most sincere apology to everyone in the Broncos organization, and especially to my teammates and our fans.

"During the off-season I took a medication which is on the banned substance list. The medication is not a substance which would enhance my on field performance in any way and I genuinely was unaware that it was prohibited, but players are responsible for what is in their bodies. I will certainly exercise far greater caution in the future and will seek advice relating to the permissibility of any and all medications.

"I'm very disappointed that I can't help my team for the first four weeks of the season, but I look forward to a great season with the Broncos and can't wait to get back on the field in week five."