New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount has been suspended for the first game of the 2015 season by the NFL.

The 28-year-old has been banned for violating the NFL's policy of substances of abuse in relation to an incident in August 2014 when Blount was arrested along with Pittsburgh Steelers back Le'Veon Bell for possession of marijuana.

The charges against Blount were dropped earlier this year after he did 50 hours of community service, but due to the league's rules will miss the season opener for the Super Bowl champions on September 10.

Blount rushed for 547 yards and five touchdowns in the 2014 season.