By Derek_Deis. Published Friday, July 16th, 2010

RENTON, Wash. (AP) -- Seattle Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill will miss the season opener after being suspended by the NFL.

Hill's suspension without pay was announced by the league on Friday. His punishment also includes missing an additional game check for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

Hill can participate in all preseason practices and games. His suspension begins on Sept. 4 and will be eligible to return Sept. 13 following the Seahawks' opener against San Francisco.

Hill was arrested in January 2009 in Georgia for misdemeanor marijuana possession. He received 12 months probation through a plea agreement. Hill was also arrested in April for investigation of domestic violence. He has pleaded not guilty and has a July 23 jury call.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)