Ex-Seahawks RB Robert Turbin gets four-game suspension for PED violation

Apparently the Friday news dump to close out June had to center around former Seattle Seahawks.

While ex-Seahawks guard J.R. Sweezy is now a free agent after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers released him, former backup running back and current Indianapolis Colts player Robert Turbin will be out for the first four games of the 2018 NFL season after failing his drug test. It is unknown what PED he tested positive for.

Turbin released a lengthy statement on Twitter admitting his wrongdoing, and was very apologetic.

“A urine sample I provided to the NFL has resulted in a positive test of a banned substance under league policy with regards to Performance Enhancing Substances. It absolutely kills me that I allowed this to happen. It has always been a priority in my life to display a high level of leadership both on and off the field. I strive to be a person that people can look up to and strive to exemplify the definition of hard work.

“Unfortunately, I have made a mistake. A mistake that will not only have personal consequences, but will affect the Colts organization, an organization that I am extremely appreciative to be a part of. For that, I am truly sorry.”

The full statement can be read here.

Turbin only appeared in six games in 2017, rushing for just 53 yards on 23 carries and a rushing touchdown against the Seahawks when the Colts came to town last October. His season was cut short after suffering a nasty elbow injury on Monday Night Football against the Tennessee Titans. He’s been with the Colts since 2016, and had a career-high 8 touchdowns that year, although he only averaged 3.5 YPC.

The 28-year-old was drafted by the Seahawks in 2012 and played the role of the #2 guy behind Marshawn Lynch in his three seasons in Seattle. He and Christine Michael were both let go before the start of the 2015 regular season, as Thomas Rawls emerged from the pack through training camp and preseason. Turbin had brief stops in Cleveland and Dallas prior to signing with the Colts.

Indianapolis’ presumptive lead running back (following the departure of Frank Gore to the Miami Dolphins) is second-year South Florida product Marlon Mack, who was Indianapolis’ second-leading rusher with 398 yards on 93 attempts. It should also be mentioned that the Colts also have Christine Michael, who’s coming off an injury that ended his 2017 campaign before preseason could even start.