DETROIT, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- Detroit starting defensive tackle Shaun Rogers has been suspended for four games by the NFL for taking a banned substance.
His agent told the Detroit Free Press that Rogers had used an over-the-counter weight-control supplement that he didn't know was forbidden by the NFL. The 340-pound Rogers was eating late at night because of sleep problems and was seeking to control his weight, the newspaper said.
Rogers has been bothered by a sore knee and the newspaper quoted the player's agent as saying Rogers may use the suspension time to undergo minor surgery.
He could return to the Lions' lineup for the team's traditional Thanksgiving Day game.
Detroit was already missing its other starting defensive tackle as Shaun Cody was sidelined with a dislocated toe. He could be out six weeks. The Free Press said Cory Redding would be moved from defensive end to defensive tackle.
