Report: Julian Edelman's Appeal Hearing for PED Suspension Set for Monday

New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman is preparing a "vigorous defense" for his appeal of a four-game suspension, which is set for Monday, according to Dan Graziano of ESPN.

The veteran reportedly violated the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs and will miss the first four games of 2018 if he loses his appeal.

Edelman had apologized immediately following news of the suspension earlier this month on a since-deleted Instagram post (via ESPN):

"I am very sorry—I don't know what happened. I've taken many, many tests obviously over the course of my career, and nothing like this has ever happened. I apologize to the Kraft family, my coaches, teammates and fans. As this matter is being appealed, I can't say anymore but no matter what, I will be ready to play and pursue another championship with our team and for Patriots fans around the world."

However, the 32-year-old plans to appeal based on two factors, including a reported mishandling of the test results.

Albert Breer of the MMQB also previously reported the failed test result was "triggered by a substance that wasn’t immediately recognizable, and there are scientists analyzing it."

The receiver is attempting to work his way back from a torn ACL that cost him the entire 2017 regular season. While he has been participating in organized team activities this offseason, the suspension could delay his return to competitive action.

While Edelman finished with 98 catches for 1,106 yards in 2016, it was one of only two seasons in his nine-year career where he played all 16 games. A pending suspension could lead to more missed playing time for the veteran.