NFL suspends 6 for 'masking agents'

NEW YORK, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- The NFL said Tuesday it is suspending six players without pay for four games for violating its Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances.

The league announcement said the players violated a longstanding provision on the use of diuretics and water pills. The pills serve as masking agents for steroids.

If a player's team qualifies for the playoffs, he is eligible to return to the active roster Dec. 29, the league said.

The suspended players are defensive end Charles Grant, running back Deuce McAllister and defensive end Will Smith of New Orleans; long snapper Bryan Pittman of Houston and defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams of Minnesota.

The appeals process in the suspensions included nearly 30 hours of hearings, the league said.