Cardinals linebacker Daryl Washington is taking responsibility for his one-year suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and is vowing to make things right.
In a statement through his agent (and the Cardinals official website), Washington admitted his latest ban was for testing positive for marijuana.
“The Policy is very strict, and I have chosen to take responsibility,” the statement said. “I am committed to making changes in my life that will allow me to return to the NFL as soon as possible. I will work extremely hard to stay in top football shape, and will work equally as hard to ensure that my life off of the field meets the high level of maturity and responsibility to which I am committed.
“I sincerely apologize for the effect of my actions on my teammates, coaches and other colleagues at the Cardinals. I also apologize to Cardinals fans for the time I will miss. I will work diligently during this suspension and will return as a better man and football player.”
While we ponder whether Washington capitalized the P in “Policy” in his mind while he gave this heartfelt statement, it’s also worth pointing out he has future hurdles in front of him.
This suspension was wholly unrelated to the personal conduct policy, after he pleaded guilty to an assault charge following an incident with the mother of his child. That will have to be reviewed at a later date.