“Jack Del Rio is an ignorant, ignorant man,”
says one former star. That’s as loving and respectful as I can be.” Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio is under fire, so much so that some are calling for his dismissal.
The Washington Commanders’ assistant has apologized for referring to what happened on January 6 at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. as a “dust-up” while answering media questions following Wednesday’s OTA practice session.
Del Rio was fined by head coach Ron Rivera on Thursday and Friday, in addition to issuing an apology.
“[I met with Coach Del Rio to express my disappointment in his comments on Wednesday,” Rivera said in a statement. “His remarks do not reflect the organization’s views and are extremely hurtful to our wonderful DMV community… As a citizen of the United States, he has the right to express himself… However, words have consequences, and his words harmed many members of our community.”
Is that enough ? The NAACP has called for Del Rio’s dismissal, with the organization’s president, Derrick Johnson, calling Del Rio’s position “twisted” and saying, “You can’t coach a majority Black team while turning your back on the Black community.” It’s time for you to pack your belongings and leave the field.”
Doug Baldwin, former Seahawks star: “Jack Del Rio is a naive, naive man. That’s as loving and respectful as I can get. Protesting someone’s murder is not the same as plotting a coup because you didn’t get your way in an election. Not to say that vandalism is acceptable, but let us not confuse the two.”
“You’ve got all these issues with the Washington Commanders right now, and [Del Rio’s] constantly trying to make waves because of stupidity,” says Brian Mitchell, a former Washington standout. And you’re wondering why that team wasn’t disciplined last year because your damn defense’s leader isn’t disciplined.”
The Washington Commanders’ fine for Del Rio will be donated to the United States Capitol Police Memorial Fund, according to Rivera’s statement.