CFL Suspends Zach Collaros for One Game for Failing to Respond to Drug Testing Request

Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Zach Collaros has been suspended for one game by the CFL for failing to respond to an off-season drug-testing request. The league announced on Wednesday that officials from the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) made multiple attempts to reach Collaros via phone and email over a two-hour period, but he did not respond within the required 24-hour window. Typically, this would result in a two-game suspension, but the league cited “extenuating circumstances” after a review and reduced it to one game.

It is important to note that Collaros has never tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug under the joint CFL/CFL Players’ Association drug policy. The CFL and CFLPA have agreed to enhance contact protocols for off-season testing of players to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In a statement, Bombers president Wade Miller praised Collaros as a respected leader in the locker room and across the CFL. He emphasized that there was no intent for wrongdoing by Collaros, but rather a missed step in the process. The organization is working to strengthen its support for players in meeting off-season requirements.

As per the terms of the drug policy, suspended players are prohibited from participating in regular-season or playoff games. However, they may still take part in team activities such as training camp, exhibition games, practices, and meetings. Collaros will miss the Bombers’ first regular-season game on June 12 against B.C., but will be back under center for Week 2 on June 21 when they face the Lions.

Winnipeg is gearing up for the 2025 season with high hopes and expectations. They will kick off their campaign by hosting B.C. and then traveling to face the Lions in back-to-back games. Despite the setback, Collaros remains a valuable leader for the team both on and off the field.