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Jackson Blackmon Suspended For Rest Of 2013

Last Updated: November 03, 2013

Justin Blackmon

Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Justin Blackmon knew he was one slip-up away from another NFL suspension, but that was not enough to keep him out of trouble. Blackmon was suspended indefinitely on Friday by the league for violating the NFL's substances abuse policy, according to the team’s website. His suspension begins immediately, and Blackmon will be eligible for reinstatement before the 2014 season. Blackmon issued an apology.

“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,” Blackmon said. “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.”

Here is a statement by Jaguars general manager David Caldwell:

“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 is technically suspended indefinitely, according to the league. However, a second violation generally means an eight-game suspension and that's how many games the Jaguars have left this season. So Blackmon will sit out the rest of the 2013 season before presumably applying for reinstatement next year.

The second-year receiver had been subject to more frequent drug testing because of his substance-abuse violation in April. The 23-year-old had been one of the few bright spots for the 0-8 Jaguars this season. Despite only playing in four games, Blackmon was second on the team in receptions (29) and receiving yards (415). The fifth overall pick in the 2012 draft was averaging 103.8 yards per game this season, making him one of only three receivers averaging over 100 yards per game in 2013.

Blackmon was having NFL troubles before he even took his first NFL snap. In June 2012, just two months after the Jaguars made him the fifth overall pick, Blackmon was arrested for aggravated DUI. Blackmon eventually pleaded guilty to the charge.

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