Atlanta backup center Joe Hawley receives 4-game suspension from NFL for violating PED policy
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Joe Hawley has been suspended four games for violating NFL rules against performance-enhancing substances.
The league announced the penalty Monday, one day after the NFC-leading Falcons improved to 9-1 with a 23-19 victory over Arizona.
Hawley is a backup behind Falcons longtime center Todd McClure. The suspension begins immediately, meaning Hawley can't return to the Atlanta roster until Dec. 17 — a day after the team faces the defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
While Hawley is out, the Falcons will likely use rookie Peter Konz as McClure's backup. Konz is also the starter at right guard.