Justin Blackmon has been suspended by the NFL for the remainder of the 2013 season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
Blackmon may be able to return in 2014, but he will have to apply for reinstatement.
CBS notes that this is the second time in the last year that Blackmon has violated the league’s drug policy. His first violation resulted in a four game suspension .
Jaguars general manager David Caldwell said in a statement : “All of us who are a part of the Jaguars family care very deeply about Justin and his well-being. That said, he must be held accountable and accept the consequences announced today by the NFL… His suspension will provide him the opportunity to receive the attention and professional treatment necessary to overcome his challenges, and we will support him during this time. The Jacksonville Jaguars will evaluate Justin’s status once he has successfully met the criteria to be considered for reinstatement to the league.”
Blackmon addressed his teammates today saying that he was sorry for his behavior. The Jaguars receiver apologized to his teammates, his coaches, and to the fans for violating the drug policy.
Blackmon said in a statement : “I want to sincerely apologize to (Jaguars owner Shahid) Khan, my teammates, my coaches and to the Jaguars fans for not utilizing the resources that I was provided to overcome my challenges… I am determined to overcome the issues that have resulted in this situation, and I truly appreciate the support that the Jaguars and my agent have shown me. I will address these matters with the type of intensity I usually direct toward my on-field play so that I can be ready to be a productive member of the team and community next season. Again, I am truly sorry to Mr. Khan, my teammates and coaches and to the Jaguars fans for the impact of my situation on the team as well as to my family and friends and those that have been there for me during these challenging times. Nobody is more disappointed with all of this than me.”
Blackmon has had 29 catches for 415 yards and a touchdown this year for the Jaguars.
[Image Via Wikipedia ]
