Cowboys, Packers lose defenders to four-game bans

FILE — Defensive lineman Randy Gregory of Nebraska competes during the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 22, 2015 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Joe Robbins/Getty Images/AFP

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Randy Gregory and Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Mike Pennel were each suspended by the NFL on Friday for the first four games of the 2016 season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

Under NFL rules regarding substance abuse, second and third violations are punished only with fines with a four-game ban resulting only after a fourth failed test. Exact substances found are not revealed.

Gregory failed a drug test at last year’s NFL scouting combine and a subsequent test will cost him one-quarter of next season. Gregory had three pre-season sacks last year but missed four games due to an ankle injury and became only a part-time player as a rookie with 11 tackles for the campaign.

Pennel played in all 16 regular-season games last season, five as a starter for the Packers, and both Green Bay playoff matchups. He made 25 tackles, including a sack, and forced a fumble. He made nine tackles in 13 games during his rookie campaign in 2014 as a reserve.

Gregory and Pennel can participate in all offseason and pre-season workouts and games.