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The NFL announced Tuesday that LeGarrette Blount has been suspended for one game -- the 2015 regular-season opener -- for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

The news should not come as a great surprise to fantasy football owners. Blount was arrested last summer for marijuana possession when police stopped a car he was traveling in with then-Steelers teammate Le’Veon Bell. Indeed, it could be an indication that news of Bell's suspension -- which is expected to be at least two games (and possibly four) will be announced soon.

As Profootballtalk.com notes, Blount’s case was resolved earlier this year when prosecutors dropped the charge after Blount did 50 hours of community service. Bell was driving the car and charged with DUI in the case, which was resolved with a sentence of probation.

Blount joined the Patriots for the final five games of the 2014 regular season after he was released by the Steelers and ran for 281 yards and three touchdowns. He added 189 more yards during the playoffs and scored three touchdowns during the 45-7 blowout of the Colts in the AFC Championship game.

Blount is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices. He'll be permitted to make his season debut come Week 2.

In addition, as NFL.com's Dan Hanzus notes, Blount's absence -- assuming he makes the team -- puts New England in a pinch out of the gate. Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen are also gone, leaving Jonas Gray, Brandon Bolden and James Develin next in line for carries -- at least until we see what the Patriots do in the draft.