Patriots news: Ben Watson is facing a four-game suspension

The New England Patriots have a problem they've got to deal with as they learn of Ben Watson being hit with a four-game suspension.

It seems Ben Watson's return to the New England Patriots won't be a smooth one.

Watson faces a four-game suspension for potentially violating the league's substance abuse policy. He posted a Facebook message on May 26 (via Boston Sports Journal's Christopher Price).

Ben Watson is facing a four-game suspension to start the 2019 season. pic.twitter.com/vxaIqtXDnZ

— Christopher Price (@cpriceglobe) May 26, 2019

According to Watson, he tested positive for Bio-Identical Testosterone Cypionate.

After my contract expired last March, I told my doctors I was finished playing, went through a series of medical tests and was prescribed Bio Identical Testosterone Cypionate to assist in healing my body and mind.

On March 29, nine days after I started therapy, I was randomly tested under our substance abuse policies. I complied out of habit, never thinking in that moment I'd want to come back.

In late April, some clubs expressed interest in me playing and after much deliberation and prayer, I decided I wanted to return.

Watson said he considered himself “previously retired” leading up to the positive results he received on May 3. He claimed he forgot about his random test on March 29. When he received the positive result, Watson said he knew his return “would include a four-game suspension.”

Watson also said, “I respect the regulations that have been collectively bargained to promote fairness on the field of play and accept the discipline associated with my infraction.”

Patriots TE Benjamin Watson To Be Suspended 4 Games https://t.co/otKIpdhrJ3 pic.twitter.com/CYgRgcceny

— Pro Football Rumors (@pfrumors) May 26, 2019

The 38-year-old Watson was the 32nd overall selection of the 2004 NFL Draft. He was part of the Patriots team which beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX.

Watson returns to New England after a decade. He should help fill the void which Rob Gronkowski left. The latter, a perennial Pro Bowler, retired in March.

With Watson's impending four-game suspension, Stephen Anderson, Andrew Beck, Ryan Izzo, Matt LaCosse, and Austin Seferian-Jenkins will compete for the Patriots' starting tight end position in training camp.