ESPN, Scouts.com, and now Darren Urban are all reporting that Ben Patrick has been suspended for four regular season games for testing positive for Adderall, an amphetamine often used in treating ADD and ADHD. Patrick allegedly took one pill, (that he got from a friend), during the bye week in October 2008 to keep himself awake as he drove home late from Flagstaff. The four game suspension would make Patrick's first game of eligibility October 18th against the Seahawks. Even if  this was a simple stupid mistake by Patrick , the obvious impact is the same. He will miss 4 games.

In the unclear picture that is the Card's TE position does this clarify or confuse the TE discussion? Could Patrick get cut because of this? Does this suspension increase Byrd's chances to make the team? What about Pope's? Does this ensure that a healthy Spach or Becht will be the starters? Is this all just a blip in the radar and it won't have a lasting impact on Patrick or the team? Are there players that now might benefit from Patrick's suspension outside of the TE position?

If it was a single act of poor judgment, it seems harsh that his whole career would be adversely affected. Yet, the margin of error for a 7th round tight end is pretty narrow, especially one who has been inconsistent in his play. I am sure Patrick is aware of all this and is just sick about it.

The cold truth is, however, that his mistake gives us something to chew on for a week or so until something new comes up. What is your take? How will this impact Patrick? Will it impact the final 53?