In an unexpected turn of events, the New Orleans Saints will be navigating the early part of the 2023 NFL season without the services of their promising rookie quarterback, Jake Haener. The former Fresno State standout has been slapped with a six-week suspension for violating the league’s strict policy on performance-enhancing drugs, as reported by the NFL’s official transaction wire.
Haener, who had made quite an impression during his collegiate career and managed to secure a spot on the Saints’ 53-man roster despite stiff competition, expressed his disappointment and issued a statement via social media following the suspension.
“I recently learned that I tested positive for a substance banned by the NFL earlier this summer,” Haener began in his statement. “I still do not know how the substance got into my body, as none of my supplements or prescribed medications contain the banned ingredient. I would never knowingly cheat the game that I love; however, I must take full responsibility for the failed test.”
The rookie QB didn’t shy away from taking accountability for his actions and went on to apologize to the Saints organization, his friends, and his family for any distractions his suspension may cause. Haener, while clearly disheartened by the situation, also emphasized his commitment to learning and growing from the experience.
“I am disappointed to be away from the team for the coming weeks, but I will learn and grow from this experience,” Haener stated. “I look forward to returning to the team as soon as possible.”
Haener’s suspension comes at a critical juncture for the Saints, who had already secured the services of veteran quarterbacks Derek Carr, Jameis Winston, and Taysom Hill. The rookie had managed to carve out a place for himself on the roster, demonstrating his potential during the preseason.
In three preseason appearances, Haener completed 52.8 percent of his passes for 395 yards, tossing one touchdown and three interceptions. His suspension leaves the Saints with a temporary void in their quarterback depth chart, and the team will have to make the necessary adjustments to navigate the early part of the season without his services.
As Jake Haener serves his suspension and works on his return to the field, the Saints and their fans are left to ponder the impact of this unexpected setback on the team’s prospects for the 2023 season. Haener’s talent is undeniable, and the hope is that he can put this incident behind him and come back stronger than ever to contribute to the Saints’ success in the future.
