NFL Spokesperson:
"Aqib Talib of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has been suspended without pay for the team's next four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.
Talib's suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return to the Buccaneers' active roster on Monday, November 5 following the team's November 4 game against the Oakland Raiders.
[Note: The NFL policy on performance enhancing substances is posted on nflmedia.com. From the home page, click on "Resources" and then "About the NFL."]
Head Coach Greg Schiano:
"We are disappointed to learn that Aqib Talib will be suspended for four games, which will begin with our game tomorrow against Kansas City. I have spoken with Aqib, and he knows that he made a poor decision that let our team down. Certainly, other players will have the opportunity to step up while he serves this suspension."
Aqib Talib:
"Around the beginning of training camp, I made a mistake by taking an Adderall pill without a prescription. This is especially regrettable because, for the past several months, with Coach Schiano's help, I've worked very hard to improve myself -- professionally and personally -- as a player and a man. I am truly sorry to my teammates, coaches and Buccaneers fans, and I'm disappointed in myself. I will work diligently every day of this suspension to stay in top football shape and be ready to help this team in the second half of the season. I have chosen to be immediately accountable for the situation I put myself in, which is why I will not exercise my appeal rights and will begin serving the suspension immediately."
