BREAKING: Cardinals Star Patrick Peterson Suspended 6 Games for Violating NFL's PED Policy

After an offseason of entirely unrelated rumors, the Cardinals just received a massive blow to their defense.

Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson has been suspended for six games by the NFL for violating the league's performance enhancing drugs policy.

Actually six games. Patrick Peterson dropped his appeal. Six games. https://t.co/8eSyrkIfSh
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 16, 2019

An eight-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro, Peterson has been an anchor in Arizona's defense ever since they drafted him fifth overall back in 2011.

Peterson has been a model of consistency for the Cardinals, starting in 128 straight games to open his career. The suspension, of course, will bring that streak to a dismal end.

In those 128 games, Peterson has pulled down 23 interceptions and registered 76 defended passes. He also has 387 total tackles to his credit.

Cardinals’ CB Patrick Peterson now will miss the first six games: Arizona’s regular-season opener vs. the Lions, then games at Baltimore, at home against the Panthers and Seahawks, at Cincinnati and at home against the Falcons.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 16, 2019

Peterson initially planned to appeal the suspension, but ultimately decided against it.

A key cog in Arizona's defensive scheme and arguably one of the most valuable defenders in the league, head coach Kliff Kingsbury will now have to work around his absence for a large stretch of games to open up his first season with the team.

Rumors spread this offseason that Peterson was headed to Kansas City in trade, though they were repeatedly quashed. Turns out, something a bit more insidious was going on.