Washington Redskins cornerback Phillip Buchanon has been suspended for four games by the league, the team announced. Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan made the announcement in a press conference following Tuesday's morning practice at training camp.
It remains unclear exactly why Buchanon was suspended, but a four-game absence usually indicates a substance abuse charge. It also means that this is the second offense for Buchanon, since a first offense means a warning.
The Redskins were not caught off guard with the news. According to John Keim of the Washington Examiner, they knew Buchanon would be suspended before re-signing him on Monday night. It's possible every NFL team knew, because the league may have sent out a notice.
Buchanon was the Redskins' nickel cornerback last season, garnering two interceptions in that role. He was expected to be the nickel cornerback again this season behind new signee Josh Wilson and holdover DeAngelo Hall.