Bears LB Jerrell Freeman suspended four games

Another week, another suspension for the wayward Chicago Bears.

Seven days after wideout Alshon Jeffery was slapped with a four-game ban, veteran linebacker Jerrell Freeman has been suspended without pay for four games after violating the NFL's policy on performance enhancing substances.

The ban is effective immediately, removing Freeman from the mix for upcoming games against the Titans, 49ers, Lions and Packers. The 30-year-old defender will be eligible to return on Monday, Dec. 19, ahead of the Chicago's Week 16 game against the Redskins.

"Much like Alshon, we're very disappointed," Bears coach John Fox said.

It's a rough loss for the Bears, who sit alone at the bottom of the NFC North with a 2-8 record.

Freeman currently grades out as the league's second-best inside linebacker, per Pro Football Focus. His 663 snaps on the year rank second among all Bears players, making Freeman one of the team's most reliable assets alongside fellow inside 'backer Danny Trevathan.

It's hardly the type of news Bears fans can feel thankful for after another tough loss on Sunday.