Bucs cornerback Torrie Cox has been suspended without pay for the season's first four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

Cox has a history of alcohol problems, having been arrested twice in the past for driving under the influence. It appears this latest discipline stems from steps the league took as a result of his past alcohol issues.

"I can assure you that this has nothing to do with illegal narcotics," his agent, Peter Schaffer, said from Denver. "I love him. He's a great kid."

Schaffer declined further comment, citing the league's policy to maintain confidentiality for players in the substance-abuse program.

Cox, 26, has been a career backup with the Bucs but has been a special-teams ace. This fall, he was expected to compete with Phillip Buchanon and others for the nickel back job. This latest news, however, might be a setback that will be difficult to overcome. He will be permitted to participate in training camp and all preseason games, but he will not be allowed to practice once his suspension begins on August 31. Cox becomes eligible to return to the active roster on Oct. 1.

For now, the Bucs continue to stand behind him.

"We are hopeful that Torrie Cox can overcome this personal setback," Bucs general manager Bruce Allen said in a statement.