The NFL announced on Wednesday that it is suspending New Orleans backup quarterback Jake Haener for six games for performance-enhancing drugs.
The NFL has suspended #Saints 4th-round rookie QB Jake Haener for the first 6 games of the regular season. pic.twitter.com/jmkQJJfvPw
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 6, 2023
The suspension comes without pay after the 24-year-old signal-caller was found to have violated the NFL's PED policy.
Following the suspension, Haener — a fourth-round rookie out of Washington and Fresno State — took to X (formerly Twitter) with a statement.
My statement. pic.twitter.com/cOm2mtczw4
— Jake (@jakehaener10) September 6, 2023
"I recently learned that I tested positive for a substance banned by the NFL earlier this summer. I still do not know how the substance got into my body, as none of my supplements or prescribed medications contain the banned ingredient," Haener wrote in a statement posted on social media. "I would never knowingly cheat the game that I love, however I must take full responsibility for the failed test. I apologize to the Saints organization, my friends and my family for any distraction this suspension may cause. I am disappointed to be away from the team for the coming weeks, but I will learn and grow from this experience. I look forward to returning to the team as soon as possible."
He'll be able to return to the Saints on Oct. 16.
Unfortunately, he'll have to forfeit $250,000 of his $750,000 salary.
Following the preseason, Haener made the team as the third-string quarterback, sitting behind starter Derek Carr and direct backup Jameis Winston. Heading into the season, Taysom Hill was also listed as a quarterback, which put Haener as a fourth-stringer, though Hill often acts as a tight end.
Haener saw extended action this preseason, attempting 72 passes. He completed 38 of them (52.8%) for 395 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions.
This is another suspension for the Saints organization. They'll be without star running back Alvin Kamara for three games following an incident in Las Vegas.
During his college career, Haener played one season at Washington and three at Fresno State. He completed 740 of 1,085 passes for 9,210 yards, 68 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.
