Anderson Handed Drug Suspension

Denver fullback Mike Anderson was suspended for four games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

Anderson will lose about $317,000 of his $1.35-million salary and won’t be eligible to return until after Denver’s Dec. 8 game against Kansas City, the league said Tuesday.

The NFL did not detail the violation.

Anderson told The Denver Post he tested positive for marijuana, but said he only inhaled secondhand smoke. He said he presented such evidence from a toxicologist in an appeal to the NFL.

“I’m very saddened by the decision made by the NFL,” Anderson told the newspaper. “I know this has a tremendous negative impact on my team, my coaches, my family and fans.”

Anderson’s lawyer, Harvey Steinberg, said his client would consider legal action.

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The NFL Players Assn. says the Cleveland Browns violated the collective bargaining agreement by suspending running back William Green for his arrest on charges of drunken driving and marijuana possession.

“We see this issue as falling under the substance abuse policy and the clubs don’t have the right to suspend the player,” NFLPA President Gene Upshaw said. Upshaw said he expects a grievance to be filed against the Browns.

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With starting quarterback Kyle Boller injured, Baltimore signed Ray Lucas as a backup to Chris Redman and Anthony Wright.... Wide receiver Kevin Johnson was released by Cleveland, one week after he was benched by Coach Butch Davis.... Tight end Rickey Dudley signed a one-year contract with Tampa Bay.... Denver signed cornerback Ryan McNeil to a one-year deal.... Arizona signed kicker Neil Rackers, one day after cutting Tim Duncan.