NFL suspends Bills TE Nelson for first four games of season

Buffalo Bills tight end Shawn Nelson has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the season for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy.

Nelson will miss games against the Miami Dolphins, Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots and New York Jets.

The second-year pro out of Southern Mississippi will be eligible to return to the Bills' active roster Oct. 3, in time for a Week 5 home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Nelson's agent, Joel Segal, declined comment.

Nelson, who's eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games, had 17 catches for 156 yards and one touchdown in 12 games as a rookie.

The Bills already were short-handed at tight end after Derek Schouman hurt his knee during Thursday's 34-21 preseason victory over the Indianapolis Colts.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.