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Lane Johnson says he'll sue supplement company over suspension

Lane Johnson, in 2014 (AP)
Lane Johnson, in 2014 (AP)

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson first complained about the NFLPA’s lack of supplement testing after his positive test triggered a 10-game suspension. Now he says he’ll sue the supplement company that he says sold him the amino acids that led to the positive test.

“Going after them,” Johnson said, according to CSN Philly. “I have people on it to get it done.”

Johnson didn’t name the company, but if he files a lawsuit we should find out soon.

Johnson tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs, a second positive PED test that led to a 10-game suspension. It could be costly; Johnson had $25 million in guaranteed money remaining on his deal, but the positive test meant none of that money is guaranteed anymore due to a clause in his contract. He said it was due to tainted amino acids he bought online.

Johnson took a shot at the NFLPA earlier this month, saying the union “does not stand up for players” because it doesn’t test supplements. The NFLPA shortly after released a statement saying that it doesn’t have an approved list of supplements, and although it has an app that allows players to scan labels, it says the responsibility is solely on the player because supplements can still contain banned ingredients.

With the NFLPA providing a reasonable retort, Johnson moved on to the unnamed supplement company.

Johnson is waiting for the results from his “B” sample and also plans to appeal, although he has said he doesn’t expect the suspension to be reduced. And after this ordeal he said, “I don’t trust anything” and won’t take supplements again. Another positive test would result in a two-year suspension.

“I can’t risk it,” Johnson told CSN Philly. “If it happens again, I miss two years and I’m just not going to risk that happening. I’m not taking any chances.

“Food and water. That’s all I’m going to put in my system. Food and water. No supplements, no powders, nothing.”

Johnson’s anger is understandable, though it also drives home a key point: Whatever an NFL player puts in his body is his responsibility, and excuses are very unlikely to make a difference.

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Frank Schwab is the editor of Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at shutdown.corner@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!