Armonty Bryant Suspended 4 Games for Violating NFL Substance Abuse Policy

Detroit Lions defensive end Armonty Bryant has been suspended four games to start the 2017 season for violating the NFL's Substance Abuse Policy, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com.

Bryant, 27, registered five tackles, three sacks and a forced fumble in five games for the Lions last season.

Per the NFL's statement, "Bryant will be eligible to return to the Lions’ active roster on Monday, October 2 following the team’s October 1 game against the Minnesota Vikings. Bryant is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games."

It's Bryant's third suspension in the past year, according to Darin Gantt of Pro Football Talk, which included a four-game suspension for PED use and a three-game suspension for violating the drug policy.

Because of his ability to play inside and outside for the Lions, Bryant was expected to be a safe bet to make the roster this year. He was productive in a rotation role for the Lions this year, a role he likely would have reprised.

But given his suspension issues, his place with the Lions could potentially be in jeopardy. As Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press noted, "Given his history, probably time to cut bait there."

For a Lions team already lacking depth amongst its pass-rushers, Tuesday's news will put the team in a difficult situation heading into the regular season.