Edmonton Elks defensive lineman Darien Newell suspended nine games for doping
The suspension follows Newell's second positive test for banned substances, after an appeal to an independent arbitrator was dismissed.
The Canadian Football League has suspended Edmonton Elks defensive lineman Darien Newell for nine games following a second positive doping result.
The ban, effective immediately, was imposed Wednesday by an independent arbitrator after Newell appealed the result.
"I was disappointed to learn that Darien has violated the CFL's drug policy," Ed Hervey, Edmonton's vice-president of football operations and general manager, said in a statement.
READ MORE: Elks edge Tiger-Cats in overtime thriller, eliminating Hamilton from playoffs
READ MORE: Elks face pivotal test against surging Argonauts in potential CFL playoff preview
"We support the league's policy and respect the process."
What substances did Newell test positive for?
The suspension stems from positive tests in May for the banned substances cardarine, also known as GW501516, and drostanolone, an anabolic-androgenic steroid.
The test was conducted under the CFL and CFL Players’ Association’s joint drug policy Doping Control Program, which applies to players with a prior violation.
Newell had signed with the Elks on May 4, 2026, after serving his initial ban.
What was Newell's first violation?
Newell received his first violation after testing positive for nine banned substances while participating at the 2025 CFL combine.
He was selected by the Elks in the second round, 10th overall, in the 2025 CFL draft but was deemed ineligible to sign a contract for one calendar year.
His case was referred to an independent arbitrator, who dismissed Newell’s appeal and imposed the nine-game suspension Wednesday.
What are the CFL's suspension rules for doping?
Under the joint policy, a first violation results in a two-game suspension.
A second violation brings a nine-game ban, which is what Newell received.
A third positive test results in a one-year suspension with a lifetime ban coming for a fourth.
Hervey said the news is disappointing but called it an isolated incident.
"While this news is disappointing, it is an isolated incident that does not reflect the commitment, character, or accomplishments of our organization, players, coaches, or staff," Hervey said.
"Out of respect for Darien's privacy and the league process, we will not comment further at this time."
What happens to a player after a second violation?
All players are subject to mandatory drug testing following a violation of the policy.
Following a second positive result, players are also required to participate in remedial education, as well as an assessment and clinical evaluation to determine if additional counselling is required.
Under the policy, suspended players cannot participate in regular season or post-season games.
It is at the club's discretion whether to allow players to participate in other team activities, such as training camp, pre-season games, practices or meetings.
The six-foot-two, 289-pound Newell, of Brampton, Ont., played collegiately at Queen's University, appearing in 37 games.
He registered 92 total tackles (27.5 for loss), 18 sacks and a forced fumble.
He was a two-time first-team U Sports All-Canadian.
Garbutt Disposal reported in September that the Elks were battling for playoff seeding with a 10-3 record.
With files from The Globe and Mail, Sportsnet and CBC News