Montez Sweat suspended two games for violating NFL performance‑enhancing substances policy
Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat has been handed a two‑game, unpaid suspension after breaching the league’s policy on performance‑enhancing substances. The penalty means he will miss the Week 6 contest at Atlanta and the Week 7 game against New England.
Bears DE Montez Sweat suspended two games
At 30 years old, Sweat entered the season with seven tackles and two sacks over five games. He led the Bears with ten sacks last year, making his absence a notable loss for a defensive line already coping with injuries.
NFL suspends Montez Sweat for PED violation
The NFL’s disciplinary action follows a standard protocol for violations of its performance‑enhancing drug (PED) policy. Sweat’s suspension will be effective immediately, and he will forfeit his salary for the two missed games.
Impact on the Bears’ roster
To address the gap, Chicago activated rookie defensive end Shemar Turner from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Turner, a 2025 second‑round pick who missed most of his rookie season due to an ACL tear, will assume Sweat’s spot on the 53‑man roster. The defensive end group, already thin, includes Austin Booker, who currently leads the team with four sacks.
Background on the PED policy
The league’s policy classifies certain substances as performance‑enhancing, and violations trigger suspensions without pay. While the specific substance was not disclosed, the enforcement aligns with the NFL’s broader effort to maintain competitive integrity.
What’s next for Montez Sweat?
Sweat will be eligible to return on October 23, after the Bears complete their Week 7 game. Coach Ben Johnson has not provided an update on the health of fellow defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, who suffered a quad injury in the recent loss to Green Bay.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen emphasized a cautious approach to integrating players returning from injury or suspension, noting that expecting full‑time performance immediately would be unrealistic.
Sources: ESPN, Yahoo Sports, CBS Sports.
