Seahawks DB Richard Sherman Says Positive Drug Test Was Contaminated

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman, who is facing a four-game suspension for a failed test for performance-enhancing drugs, is saying that his test was contaminated due to a broken cup, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN:

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A major part of Sherman's appeal, which was heard Friday, involved his claim that the cup containing his urine specimen was leaking, prompting the collector to place a second cup underneath it to capture any leakage, the source said.

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As the report says, Sherman did appeal the suspension, and it was heard on Friday in New York. The league is still reviewing the appeal, but since its decision is not going to come down until next week, Sherman is eligible to play in Sunday's critical NFC West showdown against San Francisco.

The Seahawks have been a surprise contender in the NFC this season. They started out slowly, posting just a 4-4 record halfway through the season, but five wins in their last six games, including two straight games with at least 50 points, have moved them squarely into playoff contention.

A victory over San Francisco on Sunday night will give the Seahawks their first playoff berth since 2010 and keep their hopes of winning the division alive.

Sherman is a key part of the secondary in Seattle's defense, which ranks third in the league in passing yards allowed (197.6) and is tied with San Francisco for first in the league in points allowed per game (15.6). He leads the team with 19 passes defended and six interceptions and is tied for first with three forced fumbles.

If Sherman's sample is found to be contaminated, his positive test would be thrown out, and he would not face any suspension.

We will keep you updated on Sherman's status and his drug test as more information becomes available.

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