The NFL has suspended Lions DT Ndamukong Suh two games without pay for stomping on Packers OL Evan Dietrich-Smith on Thanksgiving Day. Fox Sports' Jay Glazer first reported the news.

Prior to the stomp, Suh shoved Dietrich-Smith's head. Suh was ejected from the game in the third quarter of the Lions' 27-15 loss.

Immediately following the game, Suh said he did not intentionally stomp on anyone. On Friday night, Suh released a statement on his Facebook page apologizing, writing, "My reaction on Thursday was unacceptable."

The suspension can be appealed within three days. According to the league's statement, if Suh appeals, an "expedited hearing and decision would take place this week in advance of this weekend's games." The Lions play the Saints on Sunday night. This was Suh's fifth violation of on-field rules in his two seasons in the league.

The 2010 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Suh called commissioner Roger Goodell on Sunday night to apologize for his behavior, according to ESPN.

Earlier in the season, Suh met with Goodell to discuss his penalties and fines.

The way we see it

While the loss of Suh hurts a Detroit defense known for the pressure it can generate with its defensive linemen, the Lions do have good DL depth. Rookie Nick Fairley, the Lions' No. 1 pick out of Auburn in April, figures to step into a more prominent role and could potentially start. Sammie Hill and Andre Fluellen are other reserve tackles who could play more with Suh out.

Suh has been far less productive in his second NFL season than he was as a rookie. Suh has recorded 31 tackles and three sacks after notching 66 tackles and 10 sacks in 2010.