NEW YORK — The NFL has suspended Jets linebacker Calvin Pace for four games without pay for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Pace will miss New York's first four games of the season and will be eligible to return for the Jets' Monday night game at Miami on Oct. 12.

In a statement issued by the team Thursday, Pace said the suspension is a result of taking an over-the-counter dietary supplement that he was unaware violated the NFL's policy.

Pace, in his second season with the Jets, is eligible to participate in preseason practices and games.