Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jeremiah Ratliff has been suspended for the first three games of the 2015 NFL season for violating the league's substance abuse policy.
Larry Mayer reported the news Monday for the team's official website. The Chicago Tribune's Rich Campbell added Ratliff isn't expected to appeal, included the NFL's full statement on the matter and analyzed how the 33-year-old's absence will impact the Bears defense:
Bears NT Jeremiah Ratliff suspended for the first three games. Big blow to new 3-4 D. Full statement from NFL: pic.