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Florida QB Will Grier suspended after testing positive for PEDs

Graham Watson

Florida starting quarterback Will Grier has been suspended for one year after reportedly testing positive for performance enhancing drugs. Mike Huguenin of Gridironnow.com had the initial report of the suspension.

Florida coach Jim McElwain confirmed the report at his Monday press conference. When addressing the media, Grier said he took an over-the-counter supplement.

"I took an over-the-counter supplement and I did not check with the medical staff before taking it," Grier said. "I really hope that people can learn from this, learn from my mistake. I'm really, really sorry to everyone. Just really sorry."

McElwain said Grier will continue to work out with the team, but he will not be allowed to participate in competition.

NCAA positive tests for performance enhancing drugs carry a yearlong suspension by the NCAA. McElwain said he learned of the positive test on Sunday and that the university plans to appeal the length of the suspension.

If the yearlong suspension is upheld, Grier will be subject to NCAA drug testing throughout his suspension. In order to have eligibility restored, Grier will have to undergo an “exit test,” no sooner than the start of the 11th month of the one-year suspension, according to NCAA bylaws. The exit test must be requested by and paid for by Florida.

"We feel for [Grier], we feel his pain," McElwain said. "He had a chance to address the team and spoke from the heart. And one of the things that he expressed as we talked about this and we talked about it yesterday, it's the opportunity you have to maybe affect somebody else's life and just understand that we can learn from this."

Grier, a redshirt freshman, has helped lead the Gators to a 6-0 start and a 4-0 record in SEC play, which has them atop the SEC East.

Grier had been in tight competition with last year’s starting quarterback Treon Harris, but appeared to secure the starting role in the past couple weeks.

Grier has completed 65.8 percent of his passes for 1,204 yards with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions. He’s also rushed for 116 yards and two touchdowns.

For more Florida news, visit InsideTheGators.com.

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Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter!

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