N.F.L. Roundup – Rams’ Jackson Expects More Work Against Cardinals – NYTimes.com
Jets defensive end Shaun Ellis was charged last weekend in New Jersey with marijuana possession, speeding and driving without insurance. Ellis, the team’s sack leader, defensive captain and longest-tenured player, will play Sunday at San Francisco, according to a team spokesman.The incident, first reported Thursday by The Daily Record, occurred near Jets headquarters in Florham Park at 8:37 a.m. last Saturday. Ellis was pulled over after he allegedly passed a police car at high speed on Route 287 South while exiting onto Route 24.
In a statement released by the Jets, Ellis noted that the events constituted a pending legal matter, but added that he understood he must be responsible for his actions.
“I apologize to my family, the fans and the organization,” he said. “As a captain, I set a poor and selfish example for my teammates as well as all N.F.L. players.”
Ellis, a Pro Bowl selection in 2003, could be suspended under the league’s personal conduct policy, but that process can take time. The Jets (8-4) did not say if they would discipline Ellis, who has seven sacks.
Yes, Shaun Ellis, the poor and selfish example you set by speeding and driving without insurance are definitely worth apologizing for. As for the marijuana possession… well, I’ve heard all the arguments about it being illegal, and regardless of whether it should be illegal, sports stars should set a good example by not being criminals, yada yada yada. I would just note that in nine years in the NFL, Shaun Ellis has gone to the Pro Bowl and he currently leads his team in sacks. The marijuana does not seem to be adversely affecting his performance…
