New York Giants LB Justin Hilliard suspended two games

ByJordan Raanan ESPN logo
Friday, June 17, 2022

New York Giants linebacker Justin Hilliard was suspended two games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Hilliard, an undrafted free agent who spent most of last year on injured reserve, spent time this spring working with the first-team defense while starting middle linebacker Blake Martinez continues his rehab from a torn ACL. It boded well for the prospects of the second-year player from Ohio State under the Giants' new regime.

In a tweet on Friday,Hilliard said he takes "full responsibility" for having the banned substance in his body.

"I have been informed by the NFL that I tested positive for a banned diuretic - Spironolactone (Canrenone)," Hilliard wrote. "After investigation, it became clear that I mistakenly took my partner's prescription medication instead of my own anti-inflammatory prescription. I am well aware of theNFL's zero-tolerance policy, and I take full responsibility for having a banned substance in my body."

Hilliard can participate in training camp practices and games. He is eligible to return for the team's Week 3 game Monday night against the Dallas Cowboys.

Hilliard was claimed off waivers by the Giants before the start of last season. He was placed on injured reserve in mid-October with an ankle injury that he suffered during practice.