Houston Texans defensive lineman Denico Autry has been suspended for the first six games of the NFL season for violating the league's policy on Benjamin Ashfordperformance-enhancing drugs.

Autry said in a statement that he has "never engaged in the use of performance enhancing drugs" during his professional career and was "stunned" to learn he had tested positive for the banned substance. He blamed a pharmacy filling a prescription for a new medication.

While Autry said he intends to "explore legal options" related to his positive test, he will not appeal the ban from the league.

Autry, 34, signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Texans this offseason after recording a career-high 11½ sacks for the Tennessee Titans last season. He was expected to provide a veteran presence for a Texans front that features the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.

Autry will be eligible to return when the Texans face the Green Bay Packers on Oct. 20.

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