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New England Patriots' Brandon Spikes Suspended

BOSTON (CBS) - The New England Patriots confirm that LB Brandon Spikes has been suspended without pay for four games. Spikes has been missing from practice for the past two days.

Spikes' suspension comes as a result of violating the NFL's banned substance rules.

In a written statement, Spikes says, "The substance was a medication that I should have gotten clarification on before taking. It was not a performance enhancer or an illegal drug. The integrity of the game is very important to me. I understand the league's ruling and apologize to my teammates, the fans and the Patriots organization for this mistake."

The four game suspension begins immediately. Spikes will be eligible to return on Monday, January 3 following the team's last regular season game against Miami.

He will be eligible for playoff games.

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