Reports: Saints NFL stars test positive

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LONDON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- A report Friday by ESPN said New Orleans Saints running back Deuce McAllister and defensive end Will Smith have violated the NFL's steroid policy.

The report said both players had tested positive for drug use after taking water pills to lose weight.

The New Orleans Times-Picayune said Fox-31 WDVR-TV, Denver, reporter Josina Anderson first reported the story, citing an unnamed NFL source, and ESPN's Chris Mortensen confirmed it Friday.

Anderson was told the water pill "Bumetanide" can mask the use of other drugs or steroids.

Her report also said four Saints players failed the test, but the others were not named.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, reached in London, the site of Sunday's contest between the Saints and San Diego Chargers, said the league has no comment.

"This is a league matter and we have no comment," said Saints spokesman Greg Bensel.

The playing status of the four was not disclosed.