SAN DIEGO — Chargers linebacker Stephen Cooper was suspended by the NFL today for four games for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

He will miss San Diego's first four games of the 2008 season.

Cooper's suspension begins on Saturday, Aug. 30 following the Chargers' final preseason game. He is eligible to return to the active roster on Monday, Sept. 29 following the team's Sunday game against the Oakland Raiders.

Cooper can participate in the team's offseason program and in all preseason practices and games.