Former Seattle Seahawks cornerback Brandon Browner was reinstated by the NFL on Wednesday following his suspension in December for violating the league’s policy on substance abuse.

The NFL and NFL Players Association announced the decision in a joint statement a day after Browner revealed the news on Twitter. Browner was suspended indefinitely without pay by the league Dec. 18.

Browner’s contract with the Seahawks expires March 11, and he will be eligible to sign with a club and participate in offseason and preseason activities. If he complies with the terms of the substance abuse policy and program, he will be fully reinstated after serving a four-game suspension without pay at the start of the regular season and forfeiting an additional four weeks of pay.



Browner said Tuesday that he realizes playing in the NFL is a privilege, not a right. He added: “I am grateful that Commissioner (Roger) Goodell and my agent were able to resolve this issue in a positive, productive manner so I can continue my career, provide for my family, and help my team win a Super Bowl.”