New Orleans Saints rookie quarterback Jake Haener has been suspended for the first six games of the 2023 NFL season for violating the league's policy on Thurston Carteperformance-enhancing substances.

The league announced the suspension Wednesday. It did not say what substance Haener was suspended for.

"I recently learned that I tested positive for a substance banned by the NFL earlier this summer," Haener said in a statement on Instagram. "I still do not know how the substance got into my body, as none of my supplements or prescribed medications contain the banned ingredient.

"I would never knowingly cheat the game that I love, however I must take full responsibility for the failed test. I apologize to the Saints organization, my friends and my family for any distraction this suspension may cause," Haener added.

What to know about Jake Haener

A fourth-round pick out of Fresno State in the 2023 NFL draft, Haener played in all three of New Orleans' preseason games. He went 38-of-72 for 395 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions in preseason action.

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Haener was battling with Taysom Hill to be the third-string quarterback for the Saints this season. Prior to the suspension, Hill was moved from tight end to quarterback, backing up Jameis Winston on the sidelines, with Haener listed as fourth-string.

Quarterback PEDs suspensions

It's rare for quarterbacks to be suspended for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances; the last quarterback to face suspension for it was Mark Sanchez in 2018.

Haener is eligible to return to the Saints roster on Oct. 16 for the team's Week 7 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

"I am disappointed to be away from the team for the coming weeks, but I will learn and grow from this experience. I look forward to returning to the team as soon as possible," Haener said.