NFL suspends Giants linebacker

NEW YORK, July 7 (UPI) -- The NFL suspended New York Giants linebacker Michael Boley Tuesday for the 2009 regular-season opener.

The suspension reportedly involved an incident in May 2008 when Boley was charged with battery of his wife while he was with the Atlanta Falcons.

Boley will miss the Sept. 13 home game against Washington, but is eligible to return for the following weekend's game at Dallas.

Boley had arthroscopic surgery last month to repair a torn labrum in his hip. A full recovery is expected in 8-10 weeks.

Boley, who signed with the Giants as a free agent Feb. 28 after four years with the Falcons, has six sacks, six forced fumbles, five interceptions and four fumble recoveries in 64 games.