Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount has been suspended without pay for the first game of the 2015 season, the NFL announced on Tuesday.
According to a league spokesman, the suspension is for violation of the league’s policy on substance abuse.
Blount is eligible to take part in New England’s offseason program, training camp, and preseason games.
The suspension likely stems from a 2014 incident in which the 28-year-old Blount was arrested while a member of the Steelers. During training camp, he and teammate Le’Veon Bell were stopped by police. The officer smelled marijuana in the car and Blount and Bell were charged with possession of marijuana. Bell, who was driving, was also charged for driving under the influence of the substance.
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Blount’s case was resolved earlier this year after prosecutors dropped the charges. He completed 50 hours of community service. Blount spent the first 11 games of last year with Pittsburgh but returned to the Patriots after he was released in November.
Over the final five games, Blount rushed for 281 yards and three touchdowns on 60 carries, essentially matching the output he had with the Steelers (65 carries, 266 yards, four touchdowns).
Blount had an excellent game in the Patriots’ AFC Championship game rout of the Colts, with 148 yards on 30 attempts, plus three touchdowns.
The Oregon product, now entering his sixth season, began his career with Tampa Bay in 2010. He was traded to New England during draft weekend in 2013.
In his first go-round with the Patriots, Blount played in all 16 games, averaging 5.0 yards per attempt on 153 carries, with seven touchdowns. He also provided a surprising burst in the kickoff return game that season.
Blount signed a two-year, $3.85 million deal with Pittsburgh after the season, but his stint there was short-lived.
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Free agent running back Stevan Ridley visited with the Redskins Tuesday. Ridley, who tore his ACL and MCL in Week 6 last season, visited with the Jets and Dolphins last week. The Patriots’ 2011 third-round pick is ahead of schedule on his rehab, but still about five weeks away from full medical clearance.
Shalise Manza Young can be reached at syoung@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @shalisemyoung.