The New York Jets will be without Sheldon Richardson for the start of the 2015 season.

The defensive tackle has been suspended four games for violating the league's substances of abuse policy.

Richardson released a statement after the news was reported, apologizing to his family and teammates.

"I apologize for letting down my family, teammates, this organization and the fans. However, words aren't enough. This is something that can only be addressed by how I handle myself from this point on. I don't want this to take away from what the team is trying to accomplish. While I won't be there at the start of the regular season, I will do whatever I can to support my teammates until I'm able to return to the field.”

Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News reported Richardson's suspension was for marijuana use.

The former first round pick finished with 66 tackles and eight sacks in his sophomore season last year.