New York, NY (SportsNetwork.com) - New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount has been suspended without pay for the first game of the 2015 regular season for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.
Blount is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games.
The punishment stems from Blount's arrest last August, when he was a member of the Steelers. Blount was arrested while sharing a car with then-Steelers teammate Le'Veon Bell. Police found marijuana in the car.
Blount's case was resolved earlier this year when prosecutors dropped the charge after Blount did 50 hours of community service.
Blount joined the Patriots for the final five games of the 2014 regular season after he was released by the Steelers in mid-November. He carried the ball 60 times for 281 yards and three touchdowns.
The Oregon product then played a chief role during New England's Super Bowl run. Blount ran for 189 yards during the playoffs and scored three touchdowns during the 45-7 blowout of the Colts in the AFC Championship Game.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.