Justin Blackmon releases statement, apologizes for latest suspension

The Jaguars receiver apologized via a released statement after another suspension will keep him out the remainder of the 2013 season.

by Brandon Worley

Nov 2, 2013, 3:18 PM UTC

Scott Kane-USA TODAY Sports

Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon released a statement on Friday, apologizing for the recent events that led to an indefinite suspension for another violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy.

”I want to sincerely apologize to Mr. 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 was suspended indefinitely and without pay on Friday after his second violation of 2013. The second-year receiver missed the first four games of the season after being suspended earlier this year by the NFL for his second violation of the substance abuse policy in less than a year.

The talented receiver was drafted No. 5 overall in 2012 out of Oklahoma State, and was arrested just a few months later on an aggravated DUI charge after having previously been charged with DUI in Texas in 2010. Blackmon pled guilty to the charge in April, 2013 and stated the vowed to abstain from alcohol while stating he did not have a drinking problem. He was suspended just one day later for an unrelated violation for the first four games of the season.

In just four games, Blackmon has 29 receptions for 415 yards and one touchdown and was clearly the most dangerous weapon on the field for the beleagured Jaguars offense. Blackmon was the leading rookie receiver in 2012, catching 64 passes for 865 yards and five touchdowns while appearing in 16 games.