HOUSTON, Texas — Texans defensive end Denico Autry has been suspended for six games due to a violation of the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances, the league announced on Monday.
In a statement, the 34-year-old Autry explained that the violation occurred because his doctors had submitted a prescription for a different medication that contained a banned substance. He emphasized that he did not intentionally breach the league’s policy but accepted the suspension.
“Throughout my 10-year NFL career, I have never used performance-enhancing drugs,” Autry said. “I have undergone numerous tests, all of which have been negative. Therefore, I was shocked when I was informed this offseason that one of my tests came back positive.”
Autry signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Texans in March, with $10 million guaranteed, after achieving a career-high 11.5 sacks last season with the Tennessee Titans. He has accumulated 59 sacks in his career and has been practicing with the starting defense at both defensive tackle and defensive end during training camp.
Autry further clarified that after investigating the situation, he “found that a pharmacy to which my doctors submitted a prescription for a different medication had, whether intentionally, recklessly, or negligently, included a banned substance.”
“Upon discovering the source of the positive test, I immediately sought legal counsel. My lawyers provided the NFL with evidence, including documentation from my doctors, proving that I did not request nor was prescribed any banned substances. It was important to me that the NFL understood I did not intentionally or knowingly ingest a banned substance,” he added.
Autry also apologized “to the Texans organization, my teammates, and the fans for any distraction this may cause.” He assured fans that his commitment to performing at his best remains unwavering and expressed his eagerness to return to the field.
