:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/22224979/20131021_ter_ac4_370.0.jpg)
News broke around 4 p.m. ET that Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon had been suspended by the NFL indefintely for violating the NFL's substance abuse program.
Blackmon has issued a public 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. 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."
Blackmon returned from a four-game suspension a few weeks ago for violating the league's substance abuse policy and now has been suspended indefinitely. According to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports, those close to Blackmon are insisting that he should check into a rehab facility to get his life on the right track.
Blackmon can play in the NFL again only after reinstatement by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, which likely would come only if Goodell trusted that Blackmon has put his issues behind him.