Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin has checked into a drug treatment facility after being informed of a four games suspension for violating the NFL's policy on substances of abuse.
Martin was declared inactive before Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. He was also excused from practice on Wednesday before the announcement came out.
“I was notified last week of a four-game suspension for violating the league’s drug policy,” Martin said in a statement. “My initial instinct was to appeal the suspension and finish the season with my teammates. However, after numerous discussions with people close to me - including Coach Koetter - I am starting the suspension immediately so I can enter a treatment facility and receive the help I truly need.