Bears Lose Metcalf for Four Games

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Oct 14, 2008 4:25PM

The Bears will be without Terrance Metcalf for the next four games after the guard tested positive for a diuretic during a random drug test during the preseason. Becuase they can be used to mask steroid use, they are among the banned substances for players in the NFL. Metcalf says he's never taken steroids and isn't sure how a diuretic got into his system.

While he lost a starting job in training camp, Metcalf has seen action in all six of the Bears' games this season. And with first round draft pick Chris Williams occupying a roster spot while not able to play, the Bears are not very deep on the offensive line. The squad has played better than many expected so far this season, but their age has been a legitimate cause for concern and fatigue only increases the likelihood of somebody getting hurt.

Metcalf is presently signed through 2011, but with the non-guaranteed contracts and the Bears desperate for some help on the O-line, will they cut him lose to pick up somebody who can be in uniform the next few weeks? Or will he remain on the roster? Lovie Smith said, "I don't see why he wouldn't be. It's a four-game suspension, and that's how we're looking at it. Hopefully, we can get it back." Fine, but let's see what happens if somebody goes down.

Photo via ChicagoBears.com