Chargers DT Corey Liuget suspended for PED violation

For the past seven years Corey Liuget has been a mainstay on the Chargers’ defensive line. The former first round pick has been the team’s starting defensive end/tackle every season since they made him their selection at 18 overall out of Illinois.

That won’t be the case for the first four games of next season. The 6-3, 300-pounder has been suspended by the NFL for violating the league’s policy on performance enhancing drugs (PED’s).

In a statement, Liuget said he takes full responsibility for the failed drug test, but not for taking an illegal substance, for trusting someone else he apparently should not have trusted.

“As part of my training program, I placed my trust in someone who, in hindsight, was not well-versed in the NFL’s policy on banned substances.” said Liuget. “As players we’re told time and again that the NFL holds you responsible for anything in your body. Even if you take it accidentally, it’s on you.”

The Chargers have added that they support him through this. Liuget represents a $9.5 million cap hit this season — fifth on the team — with just $3 million in dead money if he were cut.

Last season in the Chargers 17-16 win in Oakland, Liuget tied a season high with three solo tackles.