WELKER, IRSAY SUSPENDED

Broncos Wide Receiver Wes  Welker has been suspended four games for use of amphetamines. Welker tested positive to a test taken shortly after he attended the 2014 Kentucky Derby. Welker added that he wonders if someone put something in his drink. “I’m as shocked as everyone at today’s news,” Welker said in an email to the Denver Post “I want to make one thing abundantly clear: I would NEVER knowingly take a substance to gain a competitive advantage in any way. Anyone who has ever played a down with me, lifted a weight with me, even eaten a meal with me, knows that I focus purely on what I put in my body and on the hard work I put in year round to perform at the highest levels year-in and year-out.”  He later added: “I wouldn’t have any idea where to get a Molly or what a Molly is,” Welker told the Post. “That’s a joke. I don’t do marijuana, I don’t do drugs. I don’t do any drugs.”

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has been suspended six games and fined $500,000 after pleading guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated.  Irsay admitted he was under the influence of the painkillers oxycodone and hydrocodone when he was arrested March 16.  “I acknowledge the mistake I made last March and stand responsible for the consequences of that mistake, for which I sincerely apologize to our community and to Colts fans everywhere,” Irsay said in a statement released shortly after the NFL announced the penalties. “Even more importantly, though, I am committed to do everything in my power to turn this whole experience into a positive event for myself, my family, and the community.”