Tank Johnson suspended for eight games

New York -- The NFL Monday suspended Chicago defensive tackle Tank Johnson for eight games next season for legal problems regarding weapons violations.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, however, said in a release the suspension could be reduced to six games if certain conditions, including "no further adverse involvement with law enforcement," were met. He scheduled a review of the issue no later than Oct. 1.

Johnson last March was sentenced to 120 days in jail for violating probation that was part of a penalty for a 2005 gun charge. A police raid of Johnson's home in December uncovered several guns. Authorities charged the defensive lineman with six misdemeanor counts of possession of a firearm without a firearm owner's identification card.

Johnson, 25, had 26 tackles and 3 1/2 sacks in 14 regular-season games last season when the Bears advanced to the Super Bowl.

If he is out for eight weeks, Johnson could return to the Bears for their Nov. 11 game against Oakland. He will be allowed to participate in offseason workout programs, training camp and exhibition games, the league said.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International.