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Ryan Tucker Suspended For Substance Abuse

Browns offensive tackle Ryan Tucker was suspended four games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. The suspension will not begin until the start of the regular season though, meaning Tucker will still be able to work in training camp and during the preseason. Tucker was apologetic for his actions, and although some can make a case of sympathy for him, the fact is that he has set the Browns behind:

"I didn't intend to compromise the integrity of the team or the NFL," Tucker said. "I apologize to the team, my family and everyone involved."

"The bottom line I took a banned substance and now I have to deal with it," he said. "In my attempt to come back last year, I took a substance. I was down and out last year. I just want to get on with it."

Crennel is going to support Tucker through this situation, although the staff is disappointed that the situation had to come down to this.

"He needs to keep in shape and stay up on football and then we'll evaluate where he is," stated Crennel in regards to what Tucker will do when his suspension starts. "Ryan has not been a problem for us. He had a medical problem last year he had to deal with and we've supported him."

That means that this is currently the Browns opening day lineup on the line, unless something goes wrong:

LT Joe Thomas
LG Eric Steinbach
C Hank Fraley
RG Seth McKinney
RT Kevin Shaffer

Now, it would be highly doubtful that Tucker would be able to jump back into the starting lineup when he returns, especially if the continuity in the line is strong through the first four weeks. Now, Tucker will be in a position in which he won't be relied on as much, and maybe that's a good thing. I can't say for sure, but I would expect Tucker to see less reps with the first team in training camp and the preseason, so that Crennel can get this team ready for opening day.