The Oakland Raiders' receiving corps took a hit when Andre Holmes was suspended four games for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, the league announced Saturday.
Holmes joined the Raiders before the start of the 2012 season after spending seven games of the 2011 season with the Dallas Cowboys.
Holmes still is allowed to participate in the Raiders' practices and all preseason games.
His chances of making the team, however, took a hit.
Holmes released the following statement, which was obtained by NFL.com's Ian Rapoport:
"When I received a letter from the NFL stating that I tested positive for amphetamine, which is banned under the NFL performance enhancing substances policy during an off-season test in April, I was very surprised as I know that I did not take any banned substances," Holmes said. "I know that I had been quite ill when I was tested in early April, as I reported to the sample collector at the time my sample was given, so I thought one of the medications I was taking was responsible.
"However, to this day, even after further testing, I do not know how the substance got into my system. The drug policy rules are very strict with a zero tolerance, so after consulting with the NFLPA (NFL Players Association) and reviewing the medical documentation, I will not appeal the discipline. During training camp and preseason I will work extremely hard, and I will continue to work intensely so that I'm ready to contribute the minute I am back. I sincerely apologize to my teammates, coaches and Raiders fans for this situation."
