New Orleans Saints defensive tackle David Onyemata, who had 6.5 sacks the last two seasons, is being suspended one game for violating the NFL’s substances of abuse policy, a league official told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Friday.
Onyemata was issued a misdemeanor summons for marijuana possession in February. According to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Onyemata’s apartment in River Ridge, Louisiana, was searched after a narcotics agent received a reliable tip that a quantity of marijuana products was going to be there.
Onyemata was found in possession of marijuana, THC oil, edibles and hemp powder. However, the amount was below the threshold for a more serious offense, and there was no indication that the items were for anything other than personal use.
Onyemata was given a misdemeanor summons for a future court appearance, rather than being taken into custody.
Although players are not suspended the first time they test positive for marijuana, they can be suspended for illegal activities that include possession of marijuana.
Onyemata, 26, has been a rising part of the Saints’ defense in recent years after being drafted in the fourth round in 2016 out of the University of Manitoba in Canada. He is technically a backup, but he played about 60 percent of New Orleans’ defensive snaps this past season, with 4.5 sacks and a forced fumble.
Onyemata’s development was a big reason why the Saints finished second in the NFL in run defense. And his role could be even bigger in 2019 if New Orleans’ top defensive tackle, Sheldon Rankins, isn’t available to start the season after tearing his Achilles.
The Saints open with a Monday night game Sept. 9, hosting the Houston Texans.
ESPN’s Mike Triplett contributed to this report.