Minnesota Vikings' defensive end Ray Edwards has been suspended four games for violating the NFL's policy on steroid use. Edwards has been a starter for most of the season but was replaced by Erasmus James for last Sunday's game against Detroit. Coach Brad Childress said that decision had nothing to do with Edwards' violation, which the coach learned of Wednesday morning. Childress said he was disappointed in Edwards and could not comment further because of the confidentiality surrounding the policy. "It's disappointing, but there are policies in place and our players have to adhere to those policies," Childress said. "Every team goes through challenges as you go through the year. We've been through some of our own. It's an opportunity to have others step up." The Associated Press left a message with Edwards' agent Doug Hendricks seeking comment.