Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata was given a four-game suspension Thursday by the National Football League for taking a banned stimulant in violation of the NFL performance-enhancing substances policy.
The 30-year-old lineman, whose parents are from Tonga, helped the Ravens win last year's Super Bowl and was a Pro Bowl all-star selection for the past five seasons.
"I made a mistake and I own this," Ngata said in a Twitter posting. "I took Adderall and I take full responsibility for this.
"I am deeply sorry and broken up over this. I let down my family, my teammates, Ravens fans and myself."
The ban means Ngata will miss the remainder of the regular season for the Ravens, who at 7-5 are fighting for a playoff berth in the American Conference.
"My hope is that the Ravens make the playoffs and I believe they can do this," Ngata said. "And then I can come back and help us win."
Ngata, in his ninth NFL campaign, was having one of his best seasons with 31 tackles, two quarterback sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles.
He will be able to rejoin the Ravens the day after their final regular-season game.
"This is disappointing news," Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "We are disappointed with Haloti but no more than he is with himself."
Rookie Timmy Jernigan is set to replace Ngata when the Ravens visit Miami on Sunday, both teams in the hunt for a wildcard playoff spot.
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