How will the Oakland Raiders fare while Nevin Lawson is out for four games?

Newly signed cornerback Nevin Lawson has been suspended for the first 4 games for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy. 

The Oakland Raiders knew they needed to do something to bolster the defensive backfield this offseason, and they did so by bringing in veteran cornerback Nevin Lawson early in free agency. Lawson joined a group that needed a complete overhaul, and the collection of talent this Raiders team has in their secondary is far superior than last year.

Lawson was signed in the offseason after he was let go from the Detroit Lions. The fifth year corner was selected in the fourth round by the Lions and proved himself to be a starter in the league. The cornerback adds depth to a lackluster secondary that struggled last year defending the pass.

Lawson joined a group the Raiders bolstered in the offseason by drafting Johnathon Abram, resigning a gem in Erik Harris – a player who outplayed his potential last year.

Last week Lawson posted on his Twitter account he was facing the suspension:

Lawson tested positive for Ostarine, a supplement the USADA has banned in the United States. Used for preventing muscle loss without the side-effects of steroids, the new signee stated he has “never knowingly taken” the supplement which has merit.

According to the USADA, the supplement can be added without the consumer knowing:

"Research has shown that SARMs like ostarine have fewer androgenic properties, meaning they have less influence on the development and balance of male hormones, including testosterone. While they are not yet approved for human use, SARMs are of interest to the medical community because they might be effective at treating different health conditions without resulting in the negative side effects of steroids. Ostarine is currently being investigated as a way to treat a variety of muscle wasting diseases, such as osteoporosis, cancer, and hypogonadism."

While he denies knowingly ingesting the substance, the NFL has a no-tolerance policy and holds every athlete responsible for their bodies.