National Football League

Report: Steelers TE Saunders suspended

Published Feb. 7, 2012 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The NFL suspended Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Weslye Saunders for the first four games of next season for violating the league policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Saunders will be able to practice and play in the postseason, with his suspension beginning Sept. 1.

Saunders caught four passes for 29 yards and a touchdown and played in all 17 games in his rookie season.

Before his senior season at South Carolina, Saunders was dismissed for violating team rules and accepting improper benefits.

He signed with the Steelers after being ruled ineligible for the 2011 NFL Draft. Prior to violating NCAA rules, Saunders had been viewed as a likely first or second-round pick.