The magical ride that has been the Carolina Panthers' 2015 season hit a slight bump in the road Monday afternoon when two players were suspended by the NFL.

Defensive end Wes Horton was suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. Horton was inactive for Sunday's win over the Redskins in a somewhat surprising move that may be explained by Monday's news. The third-year veteran has seven tackles and a sack as part of the Panthers' defensive end rotation this season. If the team will have him back, Horton is eligible to return in Week 16 against the Falcons.

The league also suspended receiver Stephen Hill one game for a substance abuse violation. Hill, who tore his ACL in training camp, can serve his suspension while on injured reserve. A week before the Panthers reported to camp, Hill was stopped in Concord and cited with possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

 

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STATEMENT BY AN NFL SPOKESPERSON:

 
Wes Horton of the Carolina Panthers has been suspended without pay for the team’s next four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.

Horton’s suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return to the Panthers’ active roster on Monday, December 21 following the team’s December 20 game against the New York Giants.

 

STATEMENT BY AN NFL SPOKESPERSON:

 
Stephen Hill of the Carolina Panthers has been suspended without pay for one game for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

Hill, who is currently on the reserve/injured list, will begin serving his suspension immediately.