NFL suspends Charles Rogers

NEW YORK, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Wide receiver Charles Rogers of the Detroit Lions Wednesday was suspended four games without pay for violating the NFL's Substance Abuse Policy.

The three-year veteran out of Michigan State is eligible to return to the active roster on Oct. 31, a day after the Lions face Chicago in an NFC North Division battle.

"Most importantly, I want to apologize to my family, my teammates, my coaches, to this organization, the fans and my friends," said Rogers in a statement on the team's Web site. "I will make no excuses for what I did, and I accept full responsibility for my actions. I let a lot of people down, mainly myself. I have no choice but to look forward, learn from my mistakes."

The 6-foot-3 inch Rogers, a No. 1 draft pick in 2003, played just six games in his first two seasons after twice breaking his collarbone. He has five receptions in three games this year.