What is the salary forfeited due to drug or performance-enhancing substances based on?

The salary forfeited due to violations related to drugs or performance-enhancing substances is indeed based on the amount of time the player is suspended, specifically proportionate to the number of weeks missed during the suspension. This approach ensures that the forfeiture directly correlates with the actual time the player is unable to perform their duties on the field, reflecting the principle that pay should be linked to performance and availability.

When a player is suspended for violating league policies regarding drugs or performance-enhancing substances, they are not paid for the duration of their suspension. The salary deduction is calculated based on a weekly rate, derived from the player's total annual salary divided by the number of weeks in the regular season. This method is fair and equitable, as it adjusts the forfeiture based on how many games the player would be ineligible to participate in.

The other options do not align with the league's policy regarding suspensions. For example, calculating forfeited salary on the total agreed-upon salary or using a flat rate would not take into account the specific duration of the suspension, and referencing the previous season's earnings is irrelevant to the current year's salary situation.