Baalke on 49ers’ suspended LB Lynch: ‘He’s going to be just fine’
Niners outside linebacker Aaron Lynch said he unsuccessfully appealed his four-game suspension for violating the NFL drug policy, which was a result of an “unreadable specimen.” Lynch, who entered the NFL in its drug program because of a failed test in college, was handed the suspension as a second-time offender. Lynch said the issue was a result of drinking too much water before he submitted a urine sample. General manager Trent Baalke, who selected Lynch in the fifth round in 2014, said he was “disappointed” in the failed test, but expressed confidence in a player who entered the league surrounded by character concerns. Moments after the 49ers drafted Lynch, USF strength and conditioning coach Hans Straub disparaged the selection: “Clearly, integrity & character are not a priority,” he said on Twitter. During his suspension, he can attend meetings and use the weight room at the team facility, but can’t practice.