New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram isn’t about to take his four-game PED suspension lying down. Despite the NFL already hearing and denying Ingram's appeal (per Josh Katzenstein of The Times-Picayune), Ingram's representative, David W. Jones, says they will explore further options upon the release of the arbitrator's written decision by May 16.

“At the end of the 2017 season, as a result of a NFL mandated random drug test, Mark Ingram tested positive for a substance that was not a performance-enhancing substance, nor an illegal substance, but a substance in fact permissible with the proper use exemption with the NFL,” Jones said per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. “He has vigorously challenged the test results through the arbitration process. The arbitrator's Opinion is due on or before Wednesday, May 16. Upon having the opportunity to review the arbitrator's opinion, we will explore what further options are needed.”

Ingram is slated to miss the Saints’ first four games of the season against the Buccaneers, Browns, Falcons, and Giants. Ingram is still allowed to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games. However, Ingram has not attended the team’s voluntary offseason program due to his desire for a new contract, and his presence for mandatory minicamp remains up in the air.

Ingram led the Saints in rushing last season with 1,124 yards on 230 carries with 12 touchdowns. But even without Ingram, the Saints will still have reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Alvin Kamara set to take over as the team’s lead back. Kamara had a brilliant rookie year as he had 728 rushing yards and eight touchdowns as well as 81 catches for 826 receiving yards and five receiving scores.