NFL
Vikings RB Onterrio Smith suspended
By The Source
Aug 23, 2004

Atlanta, GA (Sports Network) - Minnesota Vikings running back Onterrio Smith has been suspended for four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, according to a published report.

The Star Tribune, citing league sources, reported that Smith tested positive for marijuana.

The league has not confirmed the suspension and probably won't until after the preseason. NFL rules prohibit comment from the team until an official announcement is made.

Unless Smith can overturn the suspension through an appeal, Smith will be ineligible to play until October 17 at New Orleans. He also will forfeit four game checks, worth over $70,000. If his appeal is not heard by the opening day, the suspension could be implemented during the season.

Smith is with the team in Atlanta for Friday's preseason game against the Falcons. He will be eligible to play for the remainder of the preseason, but is prohibited from participating in practice or any other team functions during the suspension.

Smith, a fourth-round draft pick in the 2003 NFL Draft, finished his college career at Oregon after being kicked out of Tennessee.

Vikings defensive end Kenny Mixon was suspended for the first two games, barring a last-minute appeal, after being convicted of drunken driving last spring.