National Football League

Patriots' LeGarrette Blount suspended for first game of 2015 season

Published Apr. 7, 2015 5:59 p.m. ET

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FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount has been suspended for the first game next season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The league announced the suspension without pay Tuesday without saying when the violation occurred.

Blount was arrested last August for possession of marijuana while with Pittsburgh. Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell was arrested for marijuana possession and DUI in the same traffic stop.

Blount played 11 games for the Steelers last season before being cut then signed with the Patriots. In the final five games of the regular season, he rushed for 281 yards and three touchdowns. He rushed for 40 yards in the Super Bowl win over the Seattle Seahawks.

The NFL said Blount can take part in all offseason and preseason practices and games.