Penguins' Caleb Jones suspended 20 games for PED violation

Jones says he unknowingly took a contaminated substance during treatment for an injury

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:07pm

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The NHL has suspended Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Caleb Jones for 20 games after he violated the league's performance-enhancing substances program. Jones, who has played in 255 NHL games, says he tested positive for a prohibited substance while receiving exosome therapy for a documented injury, and that he did not use it intentionally for performance enhancement.

Why it matters

This suspension highlights the challenges players face in ensuring they don't inadvertently take prohibited substances, even when seeking treatment for injuries. The Penguins will now be without Jones, who was competing for a depth role on their blue line, for a significant stretch as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

The NHL announced on Wednesday that Jones had violated the terms of the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. Under the collective bargaining agreement, the suspension includes a mandatory referral to the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program for evaluation and possible treatment. Jones, 28, was signed by the Penguins to a two-year, $1.8 million contract last summer.

  • Jones was suspended on February 4, 2026.
  • Jones will be eligible to return when the Penguins play the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 2, 2026.

The players

Caleb Jones

A 28-year-old defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has played in 255 NHL games over his career.

Seth Jones

Caleb's older brother, who is a standout defenseman for the Florida Panthers.

Kyle Dubas

The president of hockey operations and general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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What they’re saying

“Caleb Jones informed us this week that he tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance under the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. Throughout the process, Caleb has been forthcoming with the organization as to how he believes the positive test occurred. Caleb takes full responsibility for his actions, despite him being unaware that what he consumed was a prohibited substance at the time.”

— Kyle Dubas, President of Hockey Operations/General Manager, Pittsburgh Penguins

“I have been informed of my positive test result and suspension under the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. At the time of the test, I was receiving an exosome therapy for a documented injury from an outside provider. I believe that my positive test was related to a contaminated substance associated with that treatment. While I did not use the prohibited substance intentionally or for performance enhancement, I understand that players are responsible for everything that enters their body and accept the discipline imposed by the program.”

— Caleb Jones (NHLPA)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.