TULSA, Okla. (AP) - Starting linebacker Shawn Jackson has been suspended for the first three games of Tulsa's season.

Coach Bill Blankenship announced Tuesday that Jackson would not play against Iowa State, Tulane or Nicholls State because of a violation of team policy. He will be eligible to return for a Sept. 22 game against Fresno State.

Jackson started 23 games over his first two seasons with Tulsa and was second on the team last season with 101 tackles.

Blankenship says the Golden Hurricane need Jackson ``to be a leader on and off the field, and I firmly believe that he has the character, determination and work ethic to be just that for this football team.''