National Football League

Rookie wide receiver suspended for 4 games

Published Dec. 21, 2011 6:24 p.m. ET

foxsports

St. Louis Rams rookie wide receiver Austin Pettis has been suspended for four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.

Pettis, a third-round pick out of Boise State, has made three starts and has 27 catches for 256 yards, a 9.5-yard average. He'll be eligible to return after the Rams' second game next season, and can participate in offseason and preseason practices and games.

Coach Steve Spagnuolo did not mention Pettis' suspension after practice Wednesday and said in a statement later in the day that the team was disappointed, but the Rams respected the NFL's decision.