Blackmon suspended indefinitely for substance abuse violation

Justin Blackmon

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon was suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

"I want to apologize to Mr. (Shad) Khan, teammates, coaches for not utilizing resources that I was provided to overcome my challenges," Blackmon said. 

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The suspension is without pay. Blackmon has about $10 million left to be paid on a four-year deal worth $18.5 million.

He was suspended four games at the start of the season for violating the league's policy.

"I will address these matters with the type of intensity I usually direct toward my on-field play so that I can be ready to be a productive member of the team and community next season," Blackmon said. "Again, I am truly sorry to Mr. Khan, my teammates and coaches and to the Jaguars fans for the impact of my situation on the team as well as to my family and friends and those that have been there for me during these challenging times. Nobody is more disappointed with all of this than me."

The former first-round draft pick will be eligible to apply for reinstatement prior to the start of the 2014 season.

"All of us who are a part of the Jaguars family care very deeply about Justin and his well-being," Jaguars general manager David Caldwell said in a statement. "That said, he must be held accountable and accept the consequences announced today by the NFL. His suspension will provide him the opportunity to receive the attention and professional treatment necessary to overcome his challenges, and we will support him during this time. The Jacksonville Jaguars will evaluate Justin's status once he has successfully met the criteria to be considered for reinstatement to the league."