Carlton has suspended defender Wade Derksen for drink driving on an off-season trip, allegedly blowing more than three times the legal limit.

The Blues suspended Derksen for all preseason games and up to round three of the AFL season next year.

The 25-year-old was charged with high-range drink-driving in Jabiru in the Northern Territory.

Derksen failed a roadside breath test late last month, allegedly returning a reading of 0.174.

Police said his licence was suspended and his case will be heard in court in the Northern Territory next month.

"While we acknowledge the upcoming legal process will carry its own penalty, Wade's conduct falls well below the standards we expect," Carlton general manager of football Chris Davies said.

"Wade is fully aware how disappointed we are in what occurred. We will continue to support him throughout this period as he takes full responsibility for his actions."

Derksen joined Carlton at the start of the season after GWS de-listed him at the end of last year.

He played 15 games for the Blues this season.   

The AFL announced earlier today that Carlton's Lachie Cowan had been suspended for two games after an investigation into his use of an illicit substance last weekend.