New Orleans Saints guard Jamar Nesbit has been suspended four games without pay for for violating the league's policy on anabolic steroids and related substances.

The suspension begins immediately for Nesbit, who will be eligible to return to the Saints' active roster following the team's October 19 game against the Carolina Panthers.

"We are disappointed in the suspension of Jamar," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said. "We will support Jamar through this process and look forward to having him rejoin the team soon."

Nesbit will be unable to participate in team activities until the week of October 20. New Orleans heads to London that week to face the San Diego Chargers in Wembley Stadium on October 26.

The Saints re-signed Nesbit to a three-year contract in February. The 10-year veteran had appeared in all 16 games the past two seasons.

The versatile Nesbit has started 87 games in his career with the Panthers, Jacksonville Jaguars and Saints.