ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Atlanta Falcons linebacker Robert James has been suspended for four games by the National Football League for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing drugs.

A fifth-round pick (138th overall) out of Arizona State in 2008, James spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve. The 5-10, 218-pound linebacker posted 10 tackles during the 2009 pre-season, but was part of the Falcons' final cuts before the regular season.

James spent the entire 2009 season on Atlanta's practice squad before being activated for the regular season finale.

James joins offensive tackle Quinn Ojinnaka as Falcons who, if they make the 53-man roster, will serve a suspension to begin the regular season. Ojinnaka was suspended for one game for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.