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Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon has been suspended without pay indefinitely by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy, the Jaguars announced on Friday afternoon. Blackmon had just returned from serving a four-game suspension for violating the policy during the off season, but now will have to wait until the 2014 season to apply for reinstatement.
Blackmon, who appeared headed for a breakout season and looked to be the Jaguars best offensive player is now done for the season and his future with the Jaguars franchise is in doubt. The team welcomed him back after his first issue over the summer, but this now marks the third strike for Blackmon who had a DUI after the draft, a suspension in his second season, and is now suspended indefinitely.
On the season so far, Blackmon had 29 receptions for 415 yards and a touchdown.
Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell released a statement:
"All of us who are a part of the Jaguars family care very deeply about Justin and his well-being. That said, he must be held accountable and accept the consequences announced today by the NFL. His suspension will provide him the opportunity to receive the attention and professional treatment necessary to overcome his challenges, and we will support him during this time. The Jacksonville Jaguars will evaluate Justin's status once he has successfully met the criteria to be considered for reinstatement to the league."