Detroit Lions DT Khyri Thornton suspended six games in 2017 season

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Khyri Thornton has been suspended for the first six games of the 2017 season for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy.

The 27-year-old Thornton will be able to rejoin the Lions following Detroit's game against the New Orleans Saints on Oct. 15. The Lions have a bye the following week, meaning his first possible game action will be against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 29.

Thornton had 18 tackles and one sack in 13 games for the Lions last season. He signed a two-year, $3.3 million deal with Detroit in the offseason.

Thornton is eligible to participate in training camp practices and preseason games.