New York Jets' Sheldon Richardson suspended for four matches

New York Jets defensive end Sheldon Richardson has been suspended by the NFL for the first four matches of the 2015 season.

The 24-year-old violated the league's policy regarding performance-enhancing drugs, but will still be able to participate in their training camp and pre-season matches before his ban begins.

"I apologise for letting down my family, teammates, this organisation and the fans," Richardson said in a statement.

"However, words aren't enough. This is something that can only be addressed by how I handle myself from this point on.

"I don't want this to take away from what the team is trying to accomplish. While I won't be there at the start of the regular season, I will do whatever I can to support my teammates until I'm able to return to the field."

Richardson has recorded 145 tackles and 11.5 sacks in his two years in the NFL.