The NFL announced a pair of suspensions on Thursday, revealing that Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain and New York Jets defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson will both miss the first four games of the 2015 NFL season for violating the league's substance abuse policy.
Both players released statements apologizing to their respective teams and fanbases...
"I apologize to my family, the Cowboys organization, my teammates and Cowboys fans for my mistake. I will not break the rules of my profession in the future, and I regret my error. I look forward to returning to the field on week 5, when I hope to help my team beat the Patriots."
Richardson, via Mike Garafolo of Fox Sports:
"I apologize for letting down my family, teammates, this organization and the fans. However, words aren't enough. This is something that can only be addressed by how I handle myself from this point on. I don't want this to take away from what the team is trying to accomplish. While I won't be there at the start of the regular season, I will do whatever I can to support my teammates until I'm able to return to the field."
Jets head coach Todd Bowles also released a statement after Richardson's suspension, via NFL.com's Albert Breer.
"This is disappointing for Sheldon and the team. We're going to support Sheldon and welcome him back upon his return. We will keep moving forward with our preparations for the upcoming season."
Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News is reporting that Richardson was suspended for marijuana use. HNGN passed along a report earlier this week wherein former NFL running back Jamal Anderson estimated that 60 percent of NFL players use marijuana.
This is a significant blow for both franchises, though both seem to have the depth that will allow them to muddle through the first few weeks of the season without too major of a drop-off.
The Cowboys, excited at the prospect of pairing the rejuvenated McClain with finally healthy Pro Bowler Sean Lee, will now be without the big 'backers services until Week 5 when the team squares off against the New England Patriots.
McClain, who had a very tumultuous beginning to his NFL career after being selected No. 8 -overall in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, seemed to finally be realizing his potential with the Boys last season. He finished the year in place of the injured Lee with 81 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble and two intereceptions.
With Lee back to health and Anthony Hitchens showing ample development last season, Dallas will likely survive until McClain's return. This continues a troubling trend for McClain though - he violated the league's substance abuse policy in Feb. and was fined four game checks.
For the Jets, their decision to draft Leonard Williams with the fourth pick in the 2015 NFL Draft looks all the better now. A perceived position of strength, the Jets defensive line has taken some hits in recent days.
Muhammad Wilkerson returned to the fold, but has been adamant in his desire for a contract extension - he likely benefits from Richardson's suspension as much as anyone. While Williams very well may deliver on the promise that made him such a high pick in Year One, it's possible that he won't develop as quickly as hoped and Wilkerson will be forced to shoulder even more of the load for Gang Green.
