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Walter Thurmond suspended four-games for substance abuse violation

We break down the news that Walter Thurmond will sit out four games for violating the NFL substance abuse policy.

Harry How

The Seattle Seahawks troubles with chemicals continue to trip them up. Ian Rapoport reported this morning that cornerback Walter Thurmond is facing a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Just to be clear, this is NOT for a performance-enhancing drug (PED) violation. Rapoport reported Thurmond is appealing the suspension, but will drop that appeal after this week. That would leave him sidelined for Weeks 13-16, and back in time for the playoffs.

I was away from my computer when this happened, but I had a chance to read over Bay Area Sports Guy's take on the situation. I agree almost entirely with his post, and would have written something pretty similar, so you might as well read his article. He does a good job breaking down the impact of losing Thurmond.

The Seahawks hold a 3 1/2 game lead over the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals, so it would take quite a plummet for them to blow their division lead. However, with the wildcard race extremely tight, every win counts. The 49ers still need to get their offense figured out, even against a depleted Seahawks squad. We'll see how the Seahawks respond short Thurmond, and likely Brandon Browner (groin injury).