Cowboys' Greg Hardy suspended 10 games without pay

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Greg Hardy has been suspended without pay for the first 10 games of the 2015 season for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Hardy may participate in all preseason activities, including mini-camps, training camp, and preseason games. He will be eligible to return against the Carolina Panthers on Thanksgiving Day.

Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports reports that Hardy and the NFLPA plan to appeal the suspension.

Hardy was convicted in July on charges of misdemeanor assault and communicating threats stemming from an altercation with his former girlfriend. He appealed the decision and had both charges dismissed Feb. 9 after prosecutors said they were unable to locate his accuser to testify.

Hardy's attorneys have reportedly filed a request asking that all records from the case be expunged.

"The NFL's investigation concluded that Hardy violated the Personal Conduct Policy by using physical force against Nicole Holder in at least four instances," the league said in a statement.

"First, he used physical force against her which caused her to land in a bathtub. Second, he used physical force against her which caused her to land on a futon that was covered with at least four semi-automatic rifles. Third, he used physical force against her by placing his hands around Ms. Holder’s neck and applying enough pressure to leave visible marks. And fourth, he used physical force to shove Ms. Holder against a wall in his apartment’s entry hallway."

The investigation also concluded that Hardy failed to provide complete and accurate information to investigators and NFL staff members.

"This suspension is something that we anticipated prior to Greg’s signing, and we respect the Commissioner's ruling," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. "Our organization understands the very serious nature of this matter. We will use our resources - work closely with Greg and with the league - to ensure a positive outcome."