The Texans and quarterback Matt Schaub have been among the elite to start the 2010 NFL season and now they face one of their biggest tests: Going without left tackle Duane Brown for four games.

Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com reports (and the NFL has confirmed) that Brown has been suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances.

Here is the league's statement:

"Duane Brown of the Houston Texans has been suspended without pay for four games for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Brown's suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return to the Texans' active roster on Monday, October 18 following the team's October 17 game against the Kansas City Chiefs."

The suspension will be without pay.

Protecting the quarterback's blindside is among the most important positions on the offense so this is a big blow for the Texans.

He's a 2008 first round pick.

Check out Battle Red Blog to see what Texans fans are saying about the Duane Brown suspension.