The Sports Xchange

Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Letroy Guion has been suspended without pay for the first three games of the season, the NFL announced Thursday.

Guion had appealed the suspension, which reportedly was levied in July for a substance-abuse violation.

Guion was arrested Feb. 3 on felony charges that include possession of 357 grams of marijuana and possession of a firearm. He entered a no-contest plea in the case and paid a $5,000 fine.

Guion will be eligible to return to the Packers’ roster on Sept. 29, the day after the team’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs. He is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games.

Last season, Guion started all 16 regular-season games and two playoff games for the Packers. He had a career-best 62 tackles and 3 1/2 sacks during the season and added 12 tackles and a half-sack in the postseason.

Guion signed a one-year deal worth up to $2.75 million in March but will make neary $500,000 less with the loss of three game checks and a roster bonus for each game.