Tampa Bay defense took a major hit this afternoon, as the NFL doled out an indefinite suspension to starting free safety Tanard Jackson, after he reportedly violated the league’s substance abuse policy for a third time.

Jackson is a talented playmaker in the Buccaneer’s secondary, and his suspension leaves the team short handed to say the least for the remainder of the season. He’ll be eligible to return to the team a year from now, but NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will have the final say as to the specific date.

Jackson was suspended four games to start the season last year for a previous violation of the policy, making it likely that he’ll have one final chance to stay in the league if the Bucs choose to retain his rights through the off-season.

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