Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman releases a statement regarding his pending four-game suspension

Yesterday, shortly after the New England Patriots’ final minicamp practice came to an end, news broke that wide receiver Julian Edelman was facing a four game suspension. According to the report by ESPN's Field Yates, the 32-year old violated the NFL’s performance enhancing drugs policy and therefore might miss a quarter of the 2018 season.

Earlier today, Edelman released an Instagram statement addressing the accusations:

I am very sorry – I don't know what happened. I've taken many, many tests obviously over the course of my career, and nothing like this has ever happened. I apologize to the Kraft family, my coaches, teammates and fans. As this matter is being appealed, I can't say anymore but no matter what, I will be ready to play and pursue another championship with our team and for Patriots fans around the world.

As was expected, Edelman's statement does not include much substance other than him saying he did not know what happened. It remains to be seen whether the NFL agrees with his point of view but as things stand right now the veteran wideout obviously does not think he purposefully violated any rules.

Edelman is not the only person close to the Patriots to release a statement. Alex Guerrero, Tom Brady's business partner, also made his thoughts public in an attempt to clear his name of any wrongdoing:

I’ve known Julian since his rookie year and he is a phenomenal athlete who takes his training seriously – it’s disappointing to hear today’s news. Elite athletes sometimes work with multiple coaches and health professionals as part of their training. Here at our facility, we take a natural, holistic, appropriate and, above all, legal approach to training and recovery for all of our clients. And anyone who would suggest otherwise is irresponsible, and just plain wrong.

Just like Edelman's statement, Guerrero's does not offer a lot of substance. Nevertheless, Brady's body coach is trying to clear himself of any wrongdoing.