The Colts suspended receiver Isaiah McKenzie and cornerback Tony Brown for three games on Tuesday for “conduct detrimental to the team,” sidelining both players until the end of the regular season.
The team did not specify the behavior that led to the suspensions, but a source informed ESPN that the violations were severe enough to warrant such harsh punishment.
Suspensions by individual NFL teams are uncommon.
Most suspensions are issued by the league for violations of personal conduct, drug policies, or playing rules related to player health and safety.
McKenzie and Brown were healthy inactives during Saturday’s Colts win over the Steelers.
While typically serving in backup roles, both players have had significant responsibilities throughout the season.
McKenzie played in all 13 games before Saturday and served as the team’s primary return man.
Brown played in 12 games this season and has been a key contributor on special teams, participating in 71% of the team’s special teams snaps this season.