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49ers' Aaron Lynch suspended 4 games for substance abuse violation

Michael Zagaris / Getty Images Sport / Getty

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aaron Lynch has been suspended for the first four games of the season as a result of violating the league's substance abuse policy, the team announced Friday.

The third-year pro has been a nice find for the 49ers after they drafted him in the fifth round of the 2014 draft. Lynch has tallied 12.5 sacks over two seasons, taking over the role carved out for former franchise pass-rusher Aldon Smith.

The 49ers released the following statement:

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.

The 49ers will have to make due with 2015 third rounder Eli Harold and Ahmad Brooks at the outside positions for the early portion of the season. Linebacker is a position the team has had excellent depth at over the past five years, with NaVorro Bowman, Gerald Hodges and Michael Wilhoite available inside.

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