Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon was suspended indefinitely last Friday for violation of the NFL substance abuse policy. League sources have told ESPN that Blackmon is heading to a rehab facility. Blackmon is a former first round draft pick. He was selected fifth overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. Blackmon had been suspended for the first four games of this current season for violating the substance abuse policy. He will be eligible to apply for reinstatement before the beginning of next season.
Gus Bradley, head coach of the Jaguars’ has expressed his support for Blackmon. Many of Blackmon’s teammates have expressed their concern and support. NFL.com reported that Blackmon is taking a step in the right direction by seeking out help for his issues. The NFL has taken notice to players who have recurring issues and they have placed an emphasis on support, as opposed to just focusing on the discipline of these players.
Blackmon has had his fair share of issues off the field, even before arriving in Jacksonville. He was charged with a DUI at Oklahoma State, hat eventually was reduced to an underage alcohol possession. He was charged with an aggravated DUI prior to training camp in 2012. The Jaguars are likely to stick with Blackmon, they want him to get better because he is one of the most talented players on this young, rebuilding team.
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