No Problem, Says Irvin, As Coke Rumors Swirl And Reputation Sags

Speaking at length for the first time since being indicted on drug charges, Dallas Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin told ESPN on Tuesday he won’t be suspended from the NFL because he doesn’t have a drug problem.

“I think suspension is for somebody with a substance abuse problem - and I don’t have it. I definitely don’t have it,” Irvin said.

Irvin could not speak specifically about his case because of a gag order, but he did apologize for the March 4 incident in which police say he was in a motel room with two topless dancers, cocaine and marijuana.

“I regret being in that room. I regret being in that situation,” Irvin said. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry to all the people that have backed me and love me, the people who know my character. I apologize to them wholeheartedly.”

Angela Renee Beck was arrested immediately when she said the drugs were hers. After a grand jury investigation, Beck, Irvin and the other woman, Jasmine Nabwangu, were indicted April 1.

The 30-year-old All-Pro receiver is charged with felony possession of four or more grams of cocaine, which is punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He’s free on $5,500 bond. No trial date has been set.

The judge in the Irvin case barred cameras and recording equipment from his courtroom after telling reporters, “I don’t want these cases to get out of hand.”

The Arizona Cardinals signed free-agent Matt Darby, formerly of the Buffalo Bills, to a one-year contract.