NFL SUSPENDS BEARS' MONTEZ SWEAT TWO GAMES OVER DRUG POLICY

The NFL has suspended Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat for two games without pay for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. Sweat will miss the Bears' game against the Atlanta Falcons and a following Thursday night fixture against the New England Patriots, before becoming eligible to return in Week 8 against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football. The league does not disclose the specific substance involved when announcing such violations. One report said the suspension will cost Sweat more than $2 million in forfeited pay.

The NFL typically hands down a two-game ban for a first violation involving a stimulant, diuretic or masking agent, while players who test positive for anabolic steroids usually face a minimum six-game suspension, according to one report. Sweat joined the Bears via a trade from the Washington franchise during the 2023 season. He has started all five of Chicago's games so far this season, playing 69% of the team's defensive snaps and recording two sacks.

The suspension removes a starting defensive lineman from the Bears' rotation for two contests during the current NFL season. Sweat is expected to be available again for Chicago's Week 8 matchup against Seattle. The NFL has not released further details on the nature of the violation.