NFL suspends Jags' Blackmon for 4 games

Justin Blackmon plays to the crowd after a making a catch to set up first and goal vs. the Titans last season.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon has been suspended for the first month of the 2013 season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

According the team's release, Blackmon is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games, but must sit out the first four regular season games. He can return to the roster on Sept. 30, following the Jaguars-Colts game.

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"Coach Bradley and I have spoken with Justin, and he is well aware of our disappointment," Jaguars General Manager David Caldwell said in a statement released by the NFL. "I don't think there is any question that Justin is embarrassed and remorseful, and Coach Bradley and I are both confident he understands the obligations ahead of him, to himself, the franchise and the fans. We will support him throughout the process and continue to work to educate him and all of our players on making the right decisions. The Jaguars have made a lot of progress over the past three months, and we will not allow this news to slow us down."

The NFL also released this statement from Blackmon:
"I've made a mistake and I have no excuse. I am truly sorry and disappointed in myself for putting the Jaguars in this situation, and I look forward to putting this behind me and maturing and growing as a person. I will have a productive training camp and pre-season with my team, and during the suspension I will work hard to stay in top football shape and be ready to help the Jaguars when I return. I have chosen to be accountable for my poor decision, and I sincerely apologize to my teammates, coaches, the front office and Jaguars fans for the impact of my mistake on the team."