The Sports Xchange

New York Jets guard Oday Aboushi has been suspended without pay for the first game of the season for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy.

According to Aboushi’s agent, the suspension stems from a traffic stop in January in which police discovered marijuana in Aboushi’s vehicle.

Aboushi, a backup guard, will miss the team’s opener Sept. 13 against the Cleveland Browns. He will be able to return to the team Sept. 14. In the meantime, Aboushi is eligible to practice and play in all preseason games.

“News like this is never welcome,” coach Todd Bowles said. “We will support Oday as we continue with our preparations for the upcoming season.”

Aboushi said, “I apologize for my actions and understand the repercussions. This is something I’ve learned from and I’m focused on moving forward.”

Aboushi’s suspension is the latest in a run of bad news for Bowles in his first year as coach. Quarterback Geno Smith is out with a broken jaw suffered in a locker room scuffle, the secondary has lost safety Antonio Allen for the season and cornerback Dee Milliner for the first month or so, rookie receiver Devin Smith has a punctured lung, and defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson is dealing with legal troubles.