For Jameson Williams, the "news came as a complete surprise that I’m still trying to understand." The Lions wide receiver has been suspended two games without pay for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.
Williams officially accepted the suspension on Thursday, rendering him ineligible for the Lions' next two games against the Titans and at the Packers. He will eligible for reinstatement on Monday, Nov. 4 ahead of Detroit's Week 10 game at the Texans.
According to NFL Network, Williams had been facing the suspension "for the last several weeks."
Williams expressed his surprise at the news in a statement in which he said he doesn't "take supplements or vitamins" and is "overly cautious about even taking over-the-counter medicine.
"At no time have I never taken something in an attempt to cheat or look for an unfair advantage," Williams said. "I understand that I am responsible for everything that goes into my body and I have to take accountability in this instance."
It's the second time in as many seasons that Williams has been suspended for violating NFL rules after his four-game gambling suspension at the start of last season.
"I have nothing but love and respect for this game, my teammates, coaches, the Lions organization and the City of Detroit," he added in his statement. "It is disappointing to accept this suspension, and it will hurt me to be away from the team as they prepare this week. So out of respect to my teammates, this will be the last time I address this matter."