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August 31, 2007

Harrison admits to 4-game suspension, apoligizes to teammates and fans

Patriots safety Rodney Harrison has just concluded a brief conference call with the media in which he made a statement affirming that he purchased human growth hormone (HGH), but saying "not once did I use steroids."

Here is his opening statement (as best we could transcribe it live):

"This is Rodney Harrison, and I am basically here to let you know that tomorrow the commissioner will announce that I have been suspended for violating the league substance abuse policy for four games. I want to make it clear that not once did I use steroids. I did admit that I did in fact use a banned substance. It was not to gain a competitive edge; the purpose was to accelerate the healing process for injuries I sustained while playing football. I am not making excuses nor will I make excuses. I made a mistake. I understand I am a role model, I don’t condone my behavior, I am very, very embarrassed by it, and to any high school (or) college athlete, I sent the wrong message with my actions and I want to be the example to them to never jeopardize their health. They always have to love themselves."

Harrison asked that the media not badger his teammates with questions while they prepare to play the first four games of the regular season, and he also asked that his family be respected during this time.

Posted by Shalise Manza Young  at 9:49 PM to Patriots | Permalink

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