Rams rookie receiver Austin Pettis will miss the rest of the season and the start of next season after violating the league’s policy on performing enhancing substances.
The Rams announced Wednesday Pettis has been suspended four games by the league.
“Austin’s situation is unfortunate,” coach Steve Spagnuolo said. “Obviously, we are disappointed and will miss him during this suspension.”
It’s a rough ending to a disappointing year for Pettis after the Rams took him in the third round. Fellow rookie Greg Salas outplayed Pettis for much of the year before Salas was hurt. Pettis had 27 catches for only 256 yards on the year.
This suspension could be especially problematic for Pettis if the Rams change head coaches. Pettis will already have to re-prove himself to a new coach, and having a suspension hanging over his head won’t help.