by JENNY VRENTAS, STAR-LEDGER STAFF , The Star-Ledger

The starting outside linebacker has been suspended by the NFL without pay for the first four games of the regular season after violating the policy on performance-enhancing substances, the league announced yesterday. Pace will be able to take part in all preseason practices and games before his suspension begins Sept. 5.

In a statement released through the Jets , Pace said he took an over-the-counter dietary supplement containing a substance he was unaware violated the league's policy.

"I am responsible for what I put into my body and I should have paid closer attention to the league's guidelines," Pace said. "I regret that this has happened and apologize to my teammates, the entire Jets organization as well as the fans. Hopefully, this does not distract from our ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl."

Calls to Pace's agent were not returned.

Pace is eligible to return to the active roster Oct. 5, a week before the Jets' Monday night game against division rival Miami, but his loss will certainly be a blow to the team until then.

The six-year veteran, whose six-year, $42 million deal was part of the Jets' spending spree during free agency in 2008, started all 16 games last season. He led the team with five forced fumbles, was second with seven sacks and third with 80 tackles. His ability to create havoc seemed well-suited for Ryan's scheme.

His suspension opens the door for 2008 first-round pick Vernon Gholston, whom Ryan and defensive coordinator Mike Pettine are targeting for improvement after a disappointing rookie season. Both coaches said they were encouraged by Gholston during offseason workouts, and he now has a major opportunity opposite Bryan Thomas.

Pace's four-game suspension is the final ruling from the league, which does not announce suspensions until the player has had an opportunity to appeal, NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said. The Jets said in a statement they respect the league's decision and look forward to Pace's return for the Oct. 12 game at Miami.

Jets tight end Dustin Keller is also anticipating Pace's return, writing on his Twitter page: "Calvin will be good and this is a tough time for him. But we all have his back, and know that he will bounce back stronger than ever."

Ex- Jets linebacker Eric Barton, now with the Browns, offered more support for his former teammate via Twitter: "Calvin is a great person and an even better teammate. He will get through this and have a great season. Wait and see."

Pace is the third Jets player to be suspended for performance-enhancing substances within the past year, joining quarterback Erik Ainge and running back Jesse Chatman, who both served four-game suspensions last season. Aiello said the number of players suspended under the policy league-wide varies from year to year but is usually less than 10 per season.

The NFL's Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances provides a four-page list of prohibited anabolic agents, masking agents and certain stimulants. The first time a player tests positive, he is suspended for a minimum of four games. The second time calls for a minimum of eight games, and the third time, at least a year.

Jenny Vrentas may be reached at jvrentas@starledger.com

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