In a shocking turn of events that has rocked the Cleveland Browns organization and NFL fans nationwide, wide receiver DeAndre Carter has been officially banned and suspended from all football-related activities by NFL officials following a confirmed positive drug test.
According to a statement released by the NFL early Thursday morning, Carter, 32, tested positive for a prohibited performance-enhancing substance, in direct violation of the league’s substance abuse and performance-enhancing drug policies. The suspension is indefinite pending further review and potential reinstatement options.
Positive Test Confirmed After Offseason Screening
Sources close to the situation confirm that the positive test result came from a routine offseason drug screening conducted by league-appointed medical personnel. The NFL’s drug policy outlines multiple tiers of punishment, and in this case, the positive result was for a substance classified under the league’s “Tier 1 Prohibited List,” which includes anabolic steroids and synthetic testosterone variants.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy issued a brief statement:
> “The National Football League has confirmed that DeAndre Carter of the Cleveland Browns has tested positive for a banned substance. Effective immediately, Mr. Carter has been suspended from all football-related activities. The league will continue to work with the NFLPA and medical experts to determine next steps.”
Impact on the Cleveland Browns
Carter, who joined the Browns during the 2024 offseason as a versatile veteran with value in both receiving and special teams, was expected to play a critical role in the team’s depth chart, especially following the trade of Donovan Peoples-Jones and injuries that plagued the team’s receiving corps last season.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the media shortly after news of the suspension broke:
“This is obviously disappointing news for DeAndre and for our team. We support the league’s policy and process and will respect the decision made. Our focus remains on preparing for the season with the players available to us.”
The Browns have not yet announced a corresponding roster move, but internal sources suggest the team may elevate one of its practice squad receivers or explore available free agents.
DeAndre Carter’s Career in Jeopardy
DeAndre Carter, a former undrafted free agent out of Sacramento State, has built a respectable career as a utility player in the NFL. Known for his speed, agility, and reliability on special teams, Carter has played for multiple teams including the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, and Los Angeles Chargers before signing with Cleveland.
His 2022 season with the Chargers marked a career-high, posting 46 receptions for 538 yards and 3 touchdowns, along with over 500 return yards. His consistent ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable depth receivers.
Now, with the suspension in place and the NFL not committing to a timeline for reinstatement, Carter’s career hangs in the balance.
League’s Ongoing Crackdown on Substance Violations
This latest incident comes amidst an increasingly tough stance by the NFL on substance violations. Just last season, several players—including Detroit Lions wideout Jameson Williams—were suspended for violations of the league’s gambling and PED policies, reflecting a broader effort by the league to maintain the integrity of the game.
Experts believe the league’s aggressive enforcement of these policies is aimed at maintaining a level playing field and protecting player health.
Former NFL executive Michael Lombardi weighed in on the situation during a radio appearance:
“The NFL has been very clear about their stance on PEDs. Players are educated, they are warned, and they have access to all the resources they need. When someone tests positive, it’s a serious breach of that trust.”
What Comes Next
Carter now has the option to appeal the suspension through the NFL Players Association, though no statement has been released by his representation as of press time.
According to league protocol, a successful appeal is rare unless a procedural error can be proven or mitigating circumstances exist. If the suspension holds, Carter could be sidelined for the entire 2025 season, with no guarantee of reinstatement.
As the Browns prepare for their upcoming training camp, the team must quickly adjust and potentially move forward without a player once seen as a key rotational asset. Meanwhile, DeAndre Carter faces a critical crossroads in what has otherwise been a resilient NFL journey.
