Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon has been suspended indefinitely without pay for another violation of the NFL's substance-abuse policy.

Blackmon was previously suspended the first four games of this season for violating the policy.

So this is at least his third violation in about 18 months. And the Jaguars are acknowledging he has a problem.

"All of us who are a part of the Jaguars family care very deeply about Justin and his well-being," general manager Dave Caldwell said in a statement. "That said, he must be held accountable and accept the consequences announced today by the NFL.

"His suspension will provide him the opportunity to receive the attention and professional treatment necessary to overcome his challenges, and we will support him during this time. The Jacksonville Jaguars will evaluate Justin's status once he has successfully met the criteria to be considered for reinstatement to the league."

Blackmon's suspension begins immediately. Unlike his four-game suspension, he won't be allowed in the building during this one. He will be eligible to apply for reinstatement before the start of the 2014 season.

"I want to sincerely apologize to Mr (Shad) Khan, my teammates, my coaches and to the Jaguars fans for not utilizing the resources that I was provided to overcome my challenges," Blackmon said in a statement released by his agent. "I am determined to overcome the issues that have resulted in this situation, and I truly appreciate the support that the Jaguars and my agent have shown me."

(China Daily 11/03/2013 page7)