Cowboys LB Rolando McClain Suspended Four Games

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IRVING (CBSDFW.COM) -- Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain has been suspended for the first four games of the 2015 season for a violation of the league's substance-abuse policy, the NFL announced on Thursday.

McClain released the following statement in response to the suspension.

"I apologize to my family, the Cowboys organization, my teammates and Cowboys fans for my mistake," McClain said. "I will not break the rules of my profession in the future, and I regret my error. I look forward to returning to the field on week 5, when I hope to help my team beat the Patriots."

McClain, who played at a Pro Bowl level for Dallas last season at middle linebacker, signed what amounts to a vet's-minimum deal with a $750,000 base salary.

He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery this offseason and has been recovering at home in Alabama.

He will be allowed to participate in all preseason practices and games and will be eligible to return in week 5 against New England.

DE Greg Hardy has been suspended for the first 10 games and is awaiting a ruling on his appeal.

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