NFL

Justin Blackmon suspended again after violating substance abuse policy

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon has been suspended indefinitely without pay for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.

Blackmon was previously suspended the first four games of this season for violating the same policy.

So this is at least his third violation in about 18 months. And the Jaguars are acknowledging he has a problem.

Blackmon’s suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to apply for reinstatement prior to the start of the 2014 season. Since the winless Jaguars (0-8) aren’t on the hook for the rest of Blackmon’s salary this season, they could keep him on the roster in hopes he turns his life around.

General manager Dave Caldwell says Blackmon “must be held accountable and accept the consequences announced today by the NFL.”