Houston Texans' Denico Autry Suspended for Six Games Over NFL's PED Policy Violation

Defensive lineman Denico Autry will be missing the first six games of the 2024 NFL season, a decision confirmed by the NFL office on Monday. The suspension comes as a result of a violation of the league's Performance-Enhancing Substances Policy, as reported by Click2Houston.

The 34-year-old lineman, who transitioned to the Texans with a luscious $20 million contract in the hopes of fortifying their defensive front, has come forward to clear the air surrounding the circumstances of his suspension. In a statement, Autry firmly stated that he has "never engaged in the use of performance enhancing drugs." His unwelcome surprise was attributed to a mix-up at a pharmacy which seemingly mismixed his medication with a banned substance, according to  USA Today. Autry, maintaining his innocence, has chosen to bear the consequences rather than appeal, aware that league policy holds him accountable for what enters his body.

The NFL allows Autry to participate in all preseason activities, setting the stage for his return to active play when the Texans face off against the Green Bay Packers on October 20. This window provides the seasoned player, fresh off an 11½ sack season with the Tennessee Titans, an opportunity to maintain form and lend his skills to a defensive unit that already boasts talents such as Will Anderson Jr., the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Despite the setback, Autry seeks to assure the Texans, his teammates, and fans that his dedication to the sport remains unaltered. "I want to apologize to the Texans organization, my teammates, and the fans for any distraction this may cause. Finally, I want to assure our fans that my commitment to competing to the best of my ability has only grown and I look forward to returning to the field," Autry professed in a statement obtained by Click2Houston.