Atlanta Falcons cornerback Jalen Collins has been suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2016 season for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, the team announced Friday.
"We are disappointed to hear the news regarding Jalen today," Falcons coach Dan Quinn said in a prepared statement. "I have already spoken to Jalen about this, and I have no doubt this will be something that he will learn from."
The Falcons took a chance on Collins when they drafted him out of LSU in the second round last season. Collins admitted failing multiple drug tests related to marijuana while in school.
Collins was a disappointment as a rookie, starting only two games. The Falcons had envisioned him as the type of lanky, physical corner capable of complementing Desmond Trufant on the outside, with Robert Alford covering in the slot. Alford maintained his starting role outside as Collins had 12 tackles with no interceptions and no passes defensed.
"I felt I could have done better," Collins told ESPN.com after the season. "I really didn't play to the best of my ability throughout the whole season."
Collins can participate in the offseason program starting April 18 and preseason practices and games.
With the uncertainty over what Collins will be able to contribute next season, Falcons are likely to look at cornerbacks in the draft.
