San Francisco 49ers long snapper, Kyle Nelson, has been suspended 10 games for violating the NFL policy on performance-enhancing substances. The suspension will begin immediately. News of Nelson's suspension was first reported by Field Yates of ESPN with the 49ers later releasing a statement.
Update: Nelson's suspension was for 10 games because it is his second violation. His first violation occurred during his rookie season in 2011.
Nelson is in the final year of his contract and scheduled to become a free agent in March. Should he land on a team, he will be eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games before resuming his suspension at the start of the 2019 season.
"I have been made aware by the NFL that I tested positive for a banned substance, and as a result will be suspended," Nelson said via the statement released by the 49ers. "I have been taking the same supplements for my entire time with the 49ers, while undergoing often simultaneous testing by the NFL with no issues. I do not deviate from my nutrition routine, and I would never knowingly take a banned substance. I am currently having the supplements tested, and I hope to uncover the cause of the positive test. When the product is identified I fully intend to seek legal action against the manufacturer to protect against this happening to other players in the future."
The 49ers worked out five long snappers on November 26. While initially seen as a curious move, the team likely knew disciplinary action against Nelson might be imminent. Those involved in the workout were Tanner Carew, Jon Condo, Lucas Gravelle, Colin Holba, and Taybor Pepper.
Nelson is in his seventh NFL season. The New Orleans Saints signed him as an undrafted free agent out of New Mexico State in 2011. Nelson spent time with the San Diego Chargers and Washington Redskins before signing with the 49ers on July 25, 2014. Before that, he had two other offseason stints with San Francisco, in 2012 and 2013. During both instances, the 49ers released Nelson before the start of the regular season.
"We are certainly disappointed to be losing Kyle for 10 games," general manager John Lynch said via the statement. "Hopefully this serves as a reminder to all of our players that they need to take the proper steps to know exactly what they are putting in their bodies."
Nelson has appeared in every game (76 games) with San Francisco since joining the team in 2014.