New York Jets running back Mike Goodson has been slapped with a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The ban relates to an incident in May when Goodson was arrested for allegedly possessing a semi-automatic handgun and a small amount of marijuana. A police report said that Goodson was so incoherent and intoxicated when arrested that he was taken to a nearby hospital.

The 26-year-old was charged with possession of marijuana less than 50 grams, possession of paraphernalia, unlawful possession of a loaded handgun and possession of hollow-point bullets.

He has now also been ruled out of league action until September 30, which means that he will miss matches against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans.

Goodson received the ban on the day that he returned to training with the team following a period of extended leave due to an unspecified personal issue, but he will now not be able to practise or play with the team until he has served his ban.