Browns CB Joe Haden Appealed Suspension, Likely to Play Sunday Against Eagles
On Tuesday, Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren said that cornerback Joe Haden already had his appeal hearing with the NFL for a potential drug suspension. As you may know, Haden tested positive for Adderall, a banned stimulant (unless, of course, a player has a prescription).
With the hearing having already taken place, the waiting game now begins for Haden and the Browns. A player is usually notified of a suspension on Monday or Tuesday of a game week, so one has to think Haden is probably safe to play in Sunday’s regular season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
There is still the possibility that Haden could be suspended, though. And if it is not this week, it could be next, which would suspend him through the fifth game of the season.
For a reference, two New York Giants players tested positive for Adderall this season. Running back Andre Brown won his appeal with a prescription, while safety Tyler Sash must serve his four-game suspension.
In other words, unless Haden had a previous prescription, it’s difficult to see him beating the suspension.