Dallas Cowboys' Scandrick fails drug test

Dallas Cowboys player Orlando Scandrick has been given a four-game ban for a doping violation.

Dallas Cowboys player Orlando Scandrick has been given a four-game ban for a doping violation. (AAP)

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick has been hit with a four-game suspension by the NFL for failing a drug test.

The league confirmed Scandrick violated the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances with the violation reportedly occurring while he was holidaying in Mexico.

Scandrick started 15 of 16 games for the Cowboys last season, making 64 tackles and grabbing two interceptions.

The 27-year-old will be eligible to return to the Cowboys on September 29 with the NFL allowing him to play in all the team's exhibition games.