FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) – Free agent running back Mike Cloud signed with the New England Patriots on Monday. If he makes the roster, he would have to sit out the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s steroid policy.

Cloud’s agent, Jonathan Feinsod, has said a protein supplement caused his client to test positive for the banned steroid nandrolone late last season. Cloud was suspended for the first four games of the 2003 season.

The all-time leading rusher in Boston College history, Cloud was selected in the second round of the 1999 draft by Kansas City. He played 56 games for the Chiefs, starting six.

Cloud has 121 career carries for 381 yards and four touchdowns. He also has 11 catches for 89 yards.