TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Tanard Jackson on Tuesday was suspended without pay for the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s substances of abuse policy.
The third-year pro’s suspension begins Sept. 5 and will continue through the Bucs’ Oct. 4 game against the Washington Redskins. He will be eligible to return on Oct. 11 against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Jackson was a fourth-round draft pick out of Syracuse in 2007. He has started every game over the past two seasons.
Citing confidentiality rules, general manager Mark Dominik declined to discuss specifics about the suspension.
“It’s disappointing news. … He’s a good young player. It’s a blow to the team,” Dominik said.
Jackson, who has three career interceptions, can practice and play in Tampa Bay’s three remaining preseason games. Sixth-year pro Will Allen will take over the starting free safety job.
“I felt like Will played well in our (first preseason) game, but it’s disappointing,” Dominik said. “It’s something we’re going to deal with. It’s something Tanard is dealing with … and we have to move forward.”
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