:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63880392/usa_today_11229008.0.jpg)
Bengals guard Alex Redmond is being hit with a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s Performance-Enhancing Drug Policy, according to Adam Schefter.
Bengals’ guard Alex Redmond, who started 15 games last season, is being suspended four games for violating the NFL’s Performance-Enhancing Drug Policy, per @Kat_Terrell and me. Played last season with a torn labrum and hamstring injury, and made bad decision to try to help it.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 22, 2019
Redmond, a third-year player in 2019, was originally an undrafted free agent for the 2016 season by way of the UCLA Bruins.
Last season, Redmond played in and started 15 games at right guard and helped pave the way for running back Joe Mixon’s AFC-best 1,168 rushing yards.
However, Redmond has been a major liability as a pass-protector, which is why the Bengals went out and signed John Miller to a three-year deal this offseason. Miller is the presumed starter with Redmond battling Michael Jordan, Trey Hopkins and Christian Westerman for backup spots.
Now, the Bengals won’t have to worry about making a decision on Redmond until Week 5 of the regular season. Because he’s suspended for four games, he won’t count against the 53-man roster until he’s activated.
Of course, the Bengals could (and probably should) cut Redmond when it’s time to come off the suspension list. Unless there’s an onslaught of injuries at guard, Redmond just isn’t worth the trouble.