Two words NFL current players never want the public to hear linked to their name: Bullying and gangs.
We've had both in the past six months, and the players linked to each have taken a beating in the court of public opinion.
By now, we know most of what transpired in "Bully-gate" in the
Miami Dolphins' locker room and the name Richie Incognito is basically mud in the eyes of most. But recently, gang talk has taken on a life of its own with the release of
Philadelphia Eagles receiver
DeSean Jackson.
Only hours before his release, a newspaper story alleged his involvement with gang members could have played a role in his losing favor inside the organization. That's some strong stuff, and it was met with a lot of outrage from players around the league on Twitter.
"They assassinated his character," one player said to me.
Nobody is saying Jackson is a perfect teammate or player. He reportedly has issues being on time and his commitment to football has been questioned. But his release seems far more about coach Chip Kelly's dislike for Jackson, rather some reported gang issues.
It's true Jackson has a huge salary cap number, but there is no denying he was the Eagles' best receiver -- by far. He was their big-play threat. It's why he will get signed and play a big role for a new team (maybe the
Redskins, who he will visit first). But if Kelly doesn't want Jackson's ways in the locker room, I get it. It's on him to allow a talent like that to walk, but ultimately the coach has a decision to make about chemistry.
Hints have come out that the Eagles players were glad Jackson's gone. If they are, it has nothing to do with his off-field associations. Players don't give a crap about who a guy hangs out with as long as he shows up to work and works hard when he's there. Players want to win, and most hate laziness.
As for the gang associations, a lot of players grew up with guys who are in gangs. They were friends with them. Just because you go different directions doesn't mean when you see them you aren't friendly.
"If you're from the neighborhood, you're some way affiliated," one player told me.
I've heard many stories from players who say gang members helped get them to where they are now. They saw talent, made sure they didn't go down the wrong path, and kept them focused on football. If they needed something, like say a pair of cleats the family couldn't afford, they got it for them.
If you want to call that gang association, so be it. I call it survival. I remember a story from a few years back that a defensive back refused to wear the red helmet cover that some teams use in practice to separate units on special teams. Why? He wasn't wearing red because it was a gang color.
But that doesn't mean that player was in the gang. It meant he respected friends of his who were.
Jackson's supposed gang symbols were probably no different. He probably told the guys he would flash something to them during the game, perhaps giving them a big adrenaline rush as they sat and watched, but it's too simple to say that act means he's a member.
Does Jackson probably know some gang members? You bet. We know it's a safe bet many NFL players have known or associated at times with known gang members.
So it's unfair to Jackson to have the Eagles so silent on the matter as his reputation takes a beating. Say something, Chip Kelly. Speak up.
If you don't like guys who don't work, then say it. If you don't like the cap value, then say it. Jackson might not be a saint, but the court of public opinion is killing him without all the evidence.