Less than three weeks after Kwon Alexander's inspirational performance in a win over the Atlanta Falcons, he is facing a four-game suspension for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport.
The news came down Sunday, though Alexander will get to play this week against the Eagles. The league likely will give formal notice on Monday, at which point Alexander can decide whether or not to appeal.
This is not a welcomed development for Lovie Smith's Buccaneers, who have won two out of their last three games amid some stronger play from No. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston.
Alexander, a rookie fourth-round pick out of LSU, has been one of Smith's best defensive players and is third on the team in solo tackles. Alexander also has two picks and a forced fumble.
In a very linebacker-driven defense, Smith will have a few days to regroup before making his next move. Former Dallas Cowboy Bruce Carter could be seeing an increase in playing time.