GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida has suspended three players from its season opener against New Mexico State on Sept. 5 for a violation of athletic department policy, the school announced Friday afternoon.

Starting defensive end Alex McCalister, starting safety Marcus Maye and backup receiver Latroy Pittman will all miss the opening contest.

The Gators are counting on McCalister to play a major role after losing first-round NFL Draft pick Dante Fowler at defensive end. McCalister finished second on the team with six sacks and nine tackles for a loss a year ago.

Maye finished the year third on the team in tackles, with 62. He also recorded three tackles for a loss, five pass breakups and two forced fumbles.

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