NFL suspends Dolphins’ Dion Jordan four games for banned substance

Miami Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s policy on performancing-enhancing substances, the team announced Thursday.

Jordan, the third overall pick in the 2013 draft, said in a written statement he tested positive for banned stimulants.

“I worked carefully with my advisors and the union to investigate the test results, and I take full responsibility for the test results,” he said, apologizing to his teammates, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, fans and his family.

Jordan, who played in all 16 games last season and finished with 26 combined tackles and two sacks, is eligible to participate in training camp and exhibition games but will sit out until Sept. 29 once the season starts. He will miss home games against New England and Kansas City and away games at Buffalo and Oakland.

“We were disappointed to learn about Dion’s suspension,” Dolphins Coach Joe Philbin said. “Dion has accepted responsibility for his actions and is committed to improving, both on and off the field, in preparation for the upcoming year.”