Veteran defensive end Shawn Lemon has been handed a two-game suspension for violating the CFL and CFL Players’ Association’s joint drug policy.
The 36-year-old was already serving an indefinite suspension for wagering on CFL games, including one in which he played, that was upheld by an independent arbitrator last year. The new two-game suspension will take effect should he be reinstated by the Commissioner’s office and if he signs with a CFL team.
Lemon tested positive for the banned substance Phentermine, a common weight-loss drug. His appeal of the punishment was denied.
CFL players who test positive for a banned substance or fail to provide a sample receive a two-game suspension for a first violation. A second violation results in a nine-game suspension and a third results in a one-year suspension. Players who violate the policy a fourth time are banned for life.
All players are subject to mandatory drug testing following a positive result or failure to provide a sample. They are also required to participate in an assessment and clinical evaluation to determine if additional counselling is required.
The CFL performs a total number of league-wide tests that is equal to the total number of players in the CFL. Testing is ongoing and is conducted year-round.
Lemon has played 152 regular season CFL games with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Elks, Ottawa Redblacks, Calgary Stampeders, Toronto Argonauts, B.C. Lions, and Alouettes, recording 243 defensive tackles, 102 sacks, 30 forced fumbles, and three interceptions. He remains under contract with Montreal through this season.
The CFLPA declined 3DownNation‘s request for comment on the suspension.
