49ers suspend Aaron Lynch over substance abuse rule violation

SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU) -- The San Francisco 49ers said Friday that player Aaron Lynch has been suspended for four games for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

The decision means Lynch will miss the first four games of the regular season this year but he will be eligible to return to the team roster on Monday, Oct 3, following the game against the Dallas Cowboys.

In a written statement, General Manager Trent Baalke  said: "“While disappointed to hear the news regarding Aaron today, we support and respect the league’s decision. We are confident that he will learn from this matter and that he understands what is expected of him moving forward.”

It was not immediately clear how Lynch violated the policy. He is eligible to participate in all off-season and pre-season practices and games. 

The 49ers open the regular season on Sept 12 against the Rams. They play the Panthers on Sep. 18 and Seattle on Sept. 25.