Falcons Linebacker James Suspended

Published Jul. 8, 2010 4:05 p.m. ET

foxsports

ATLANTA (AP) -- The NFL has suspended Atlanta Falcons linebacker Robert James for four games for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.

A team spokesman confirms the suspension Thursday.

The 26-year-old James played in only one game and did not record a tackle. James, from Arizona State, was a fifth-round pick by the Falcons in 2008. He missed his rookie season with a concussion.

James' suspension begins with the Falcons Sept. 12 opener at Pittsburgh. He will be eligible for the Oct. 10 game at Cleveland.