It was time for Justin Blackmon to face the music on his DUI. No, not the court system, but the Jaguars community. Blackmon spoke for the first time since he was arrested for DUI at a Wednesday press conference. He was joined by GM Gene Smith and head coach Mike Mularkey.
Everyone involved, including Blackmon, expressed regret about the situation.
Blackmon: "Words are words. My actions will have to show." #Jaguars
— Mark Long (@APMarkLong) June 6, 2012
Blackmon says he's putting more pressure on himself to "make this right" and get out of this situation. #Jaguars
— Mark Long (@APMarkLong) June 6, 2012
Blackmon said that he is "done" drinking, at least for the time being. The Jaguars said Blackmon's situation reminds them of the need for in depth research on players before drafting them. Mularkey said that 89 Jags players did well last weekend and one of them is casting a negative light on everyone.
When asked about Blackmon's contract situation, Smith acknowledged that the DUI could have an impact on negotiations. The NFL now has a rookie wage scale but the Jaguars could limit the amount of guaranteed money given the situation.
As for the chances of a suspension or other action, Smith said that it's now a league matter and they will decide what happens next.
Keep up with this story as it develops on our Justin Blackmon DUI StoryStream. For more on the Jaguars, visit Big Cat Country. For more on Oklahoma State, head to Cowboys Ride For Free.