Pittsburgh Steelers star Le'Veon Bell has been suspended for the first three games of the regular season and has been fined an additional game's pay.

Bell was adjudged to have violated the league's substance abuse policy, but is expected to appeal the suspension.

In February, Bell received 15 months on probation after an arrest on marijuana possession and DUI charges with former teammate LeGarrette Blount.

The 22-year-old was the NFL's second-leading rusher last season, gaining 1,361 yards and scoring eight touchdowns for Pittsburgh.

He was also the Steelers' second-leading receiver with 83 catches for 854 yards, and set a franchise record with 2,215 yards from scrimmage.