One of the Bears’ valued rotational defensive linemen will miss time next year due to violation of the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy.
News from the Tribune’s Dan Wiederer:
Breaking: Bears DE Mario Edwards has been suspended for the first two games of 2021 for violating the NFL policy on performance-enhancing substances. He will be allowed to partake in training camp and the preseason.
— Dan Wiederer (@danwiederer) January 15, 2021
Mario Edwards’ two-game suspension will allow him to participate in training camp, the preseason, and the offseason program. Which team’s program he joins remains to be seen. Edwards, 26, is a free agent whose contract with the Bears expires when the league’s new year begins in March. He collected 4 sacks, 6 tackles-for-loss, and 7 QB Hits in 15 games.
Had Edwards not been facing a suspension, I’d think that type of production would be enough to inspire a team to sign him away. Moreover, Edwards could have netted a deal that helped the Bears in the compensatory draft pick formula. Instead, the suspension throws things up in the air. Then again, it’s likely things were always going to be uncertain regarding Edwards’ free agency. Remember, the NFL has yet to share public resolution regarding its investigation of assault charges against Edwards that emerged earlier in the season.