Panthers DE Alexander suspended one year for violating substance abuse policy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The NFL has suspended Carolina Panthers defensive Frank Alexander without pay for a minimum of one year for violating the Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse for a third time.

Alexander, who is on injured reserve, was suspended twice last season for a total of 14 games by the NFL for substance abuse violations.

Alexander's latest suspension could force the Panthers to cut ties with the former fifth-round pick. He tore his Achilles in training camp and was lost for the season. He was waived-injured and reverted back to the team.

On Monday, Panthers defensive end Wes Horton was suspended four games for violating the NFL policy on performance-enhancing substances. And injured wide receiver Stephen Hill was suspended one game for violating the NFL's policy and program for substances of abuse.