The Baltimore Ravens have reacted to the news of defensive tackle Haloti Ngata's four-game suspension, stating that they are disappointed about his upcoming absence.

Ngata was handed a four-game suspension on Thursday for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances.

"It's definitely difficult to hear," Torrey Smith said, according to The Baltimore Sun.

"He's expressed how disappointed that he is. I know he's hurt for it, and we're going to be hurt by it. But we have a lot of guys who have the ability and they got to step up."

Cornerback Asa Jackson added that it was a "tough loss" for the remainder of the regular season but that he is keen to support his teammate as is aware from personal experience how it can effect both the player and his family.

Ngata, who will be eligible to return for the playoffs if the Ravens make the post-season, admitted to making a mistake and apologised to the fans, his teammates and the organisation in a statement on Thursday.