Rams' Brown suspended 4 games for violating NFL substance abuse policy

ST. LOUIS (AP) -Rams cornerback Fakhir Brown was suspended Friday for the first four games next season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The league didn't reveal the specific nature of the violation. Brown's agent, Ted Marchibroda, didn't immediately return a phone call seeking comment.

Brown's suspension will begin Aug. 31 and he can return to the active roster on Oct. 1, following the Rams' game Sept. 30 against the Dallas Cowboys. He is allowed to participate in preseason games and practice.

Brown, 29, started 14 games for the Rams last season. He tied for the team high with three interceptions and had one sack. He missed two games with an ankle injury. He signed a five-year deal as a free agent with the Rams in 2006 after spending his first four NFL seasons with New Orleans.