NFL player blames fertility medication for positive drug test

Tennessee Titans cornerback Nazeeh Johnson has been suspended for the first six games of the 2026 NFL regular season for violating the league's Performance-Enhancing Substances Policy. Johnson, 28, stated that the positive test stemmed from a fertility medication he was taking as part of his and his wife's efforts to start a family.

In a statement released on X, Johnson explained that he was unaware the medication contained a substance prohibited by NFL rules. He also revealed the deeply personal struggle the couple is enduring, sharing that they recently lost their baby. Despite this loss, they remain hopeful about growing their family, with nine viable eggs remaining.

The suspension, which takes effect August 30, means Johnson will miss the Titans' initial six regular-season games if he remains on the roster. He is eligible for reinstatement on October 19. Johnson's wife stated that their appeal to the NFL, supported by over 50 documents, was denied.

Johnson, who joined the Titans in July after four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, used his experience to caution other NFL players about the importance of verifying any medications they take. He advised players to "Do not put anything in your body without following the process and getting approval beforehand."

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Do not put anything in your body without following the process and getting approval beforehand.