Thurmond suspended; Hawks sign former 49ers cornerback

SEATTLE -- The Seattle Seahawks signed a new cornerback moments after the NFL confirmed reports that Hawks cornerback Walter Thurmond would be suspended for four games after violating the league's drug policy.

The Hawks signed cornerback Perrish Cox to their 53-active roster Tuesday afternoon. In nine game with the 49ers this season, Cox had two tackles and one fumble recovery as a third-string backup.

He and other Seattle cornerbacks, practice-squad member DeShawn Shead and rookie corner Tharold Simon, are expected to fill the roll of Thurmond and injured cornerback Brandon Browner.

Browner also reportedly faces a suspension for violating the leagues' substance abuse policy. According to other news outlets, both Browner and Thurmond tested positive for marijuana, a drug banned in the NFL.

Thurmond will be available for play when the Seahawks face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Dec. 22.