Jets TE Winslow suspended four games
New York Jets tight end Kellen Winslow has been suspended four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.
What substance Winslow tested positive for wasn't immediately known, but the suspension begins immediately and he will be eligible to return to the team the day after the Jets' Nov. 3 game against the New Orleans Saints.
The league announcement came shortly after the Jets listed Winslow as doubtful for Sunday's game against Pittsburgh due to a sore knee.
The suspension is a setback for rookie quarterback Geno Smith and the Jets' emerging offense. Winslow leads the team with 17 receptions for 169 yards and is tied for the team with with two touchdown catches. However, Winslow was targeted only once in Monday's victory at Atlanta.
Fellow tight end Jeff Cumberland also has a pair of touchdown receptions and will see increased snaps in Winslow's absence, as will Konrad Reuland in two-tight end sets. The Jets also have rookie Zach Sedfeld, who was signed after being released by New England.
"We have a really good tight end in Jeff Cumberland," Jets head coach Rex Ryan said. "The guy's a young stud tight end, big guy, can block and he does a nice job receiving. He's a good player."
A four-year veteran out of Illinois, Cumberland caught three passes for 79 yards and a touchdown against Atlanta.
--CB Antonio Cromartie did not participate in Friday's practice after suffering a non-contact injury to his knee the previous day and is officially listed as questionable.
"It was one of those hold-your-breath type deals," Ryan said. "We'll give him every benefit of the doubt. If we think he's good to go, let's go, but if not, clearly we're not going to put him out there if he's at risk."
If Cromartie is unable to play, Kyle Wilson will start opposite Darrin Walls, with Isaiah Trufant playing inside in nickel packages. Rookie Dee Milliner has been ruled out with his lingering hamstring injury. Milliner said he believes he'll be ready to return for next week's game against New England.
--WR Santonio Holmes was ruled out against Pittsburgh due to foot and hamstring injuries.
--OT Oday Aboushi is questionable with a knee injury.
