Elks’ Darien Newell suspended nine games for doping

The CFL has suspended Edmonton Elks defensive lineman Darien Newell for nine games after a second positive doping test as the Elks prepare to host the CFL West final.

Newell tested positive in May for the banned substances cardarine and drostanolone, an anabolic-androgenic steroid, CBC News and The Canadian Press reported. He appealed, and an independent arbitrator dismissed the appeal and imposed the suspension on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

“I was disappointed to learn that Darien has violated the CFL’s drug policy,” Elks general manager Ed Hervey said in a statement. “We support the league’s policy and respect the process.”

Hervey called it “an isolated incident that does not reflect the commitment, character or accomplishments of our organization,” and said the club would not comment further out of respect for Newell’s privacy and the league process.

It is Newell’s second violation. He tested positive for nine banned substances at the 2025 CFL combine and was ruled ineligible to sign a CFL contract for one year after the Elks drafted him in the second round, 10th overall. He signed with Edmonton on May 4 after serving that ban, and his May test was done under the league’s doping control program for players with a previous violation.

Under the CFL policy, a first violation brings a two-game suspension and a second brings nine games. A third positive test means a one-year suspension, and a fourth a lifetime ban. Players with a second positive result must also take remedial education and a clinical assessment.

The six-foot-two, 289-pound Newell, from Brampton, Ont., played 37 games at Queen’s University, with 92 tackles, 18 sacks and a forced fumble, and was twice a first-team U Sports All-Canadian.

The Elks ended their playoff drought in September and, CBC reported, have clinched home field for the upcoming CFL West final, bringing playoff football back to Edmonton for the first time since 2015.

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