San Diego Chargers veteran tight end Antonio Gates has been suspended four games for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

The eight-time Pro Bowler released a statement after news of his suspensions surfaced.

"In my 12 years in the NFL, I have taken tremendous pride in upholding the integrity of the NFL shield and all that it entails.  I have taken extreme care of my body with a holistic approach and never taken any substance that was illegal or banned by the NFL. 

“In an effort to recover from a long season and although I was unaware at the time, I regret to confirm that I tested positive for a substance that is currently on the NFL banned substance list.  As an NFL veteran and team leader, I should have done my due diligence to ensure that what I was taking for recovery was within the NFL guidelines.  I have always believed that ignorance is no excuse when it comes to these issues, and I take full responsibility for my actions.  

“I’d like to express my sincere apologies to the Chargers, my teammates, coaches, fans and the league who have always supported me and expected and gotten nothing but the highest level of integrity from me."

The Chargers also released a statement on the news.

“We are tremendously disappointed for our team and our fans as well as Antonio, but no more disappointed than Antonio is with himself.  Antonio is a member of the Chargers’ family and we will continue to support him 100-percent.  We have the utmost confidence he will stay in excellent shape for the season and be ready to go when he returns in Week 5.  While it's unfortunate to not have him to start the season, we have complete confidence our tight end group will continue to play at a high level.”

The 35-year-old caught 69 passes for 821 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. For his career, the Kent State product has 10.014 receiving yards and 99 touchdowns.