The Kansas City Chiefs announced that outside linebacker Tamba Hali had been suspended one game for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy.
Hali is eligible to participate in the remainder of the preseason practices and games, but he will sit out the 2012 regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Hali will be eligible for reinstatement Sept. 10.
"Tamba's situation is unfortunate," Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli said. "Obviously, we are disappointed and will miss him during this suspension, but the NFL's policies are very clear and we respect the league's decision in this matter. We are unable to comment further on this matter or any aspect of the NFL's Drug Policy."
In addition to the one-game suspension, Hali has been fined an additional game check. Hali is scheduled to earn $11.25 million, which means his suspension and additional fine will cost him $1,323,529.
A first-round draft pick out of Penn State in 2006, 28-year-old Hali has 349 tackles, 53.5 sacks and an interception as a starting defensive end and linebacker in six seasons. Over the last two seasons, Hali has emerged as one of top pass rushers in the NFL, posting 26.5 sacks and earning trips to the Pro Bowl.
UPDATE: Hali later released the following statement to Aaron Wilson of Scout.com:
"I apologize to my teammates, the Hunt family, the Kansas City Chiefs organization and most importantly, our fans," Hali said. "I accept the discipline and will return with commitment to erase mistake with my play on the field and my conduct off of it."
UPDATE 2:Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel addressed the suspension Monday during his news conference:
"We're disappointed. We're disappointed for him; we're disappointed for the team, disappointed for the organization and the fans, but it is what it is. ... He's able to practice with us and be with us and play in the preseason games. His suspension will start when the regular season starts, and after he serves his suspension he'll be back with the team at that time." **
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