Skip to content
Rally High School Sports
Link copied to clipboard

NFL: Redskins owner praises Jackson, defends team name

Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder on Tuesday downplayed his role in the signing of free- agent receiver DeSean Jackson, distancing himself from his reputation of being actively involved in personnel decisions.

Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder on Tuesday downplayed his role in the signing of free- agent receiver DeSean Jackson, distancing himself from his reputation of being actively involved in personnel decisions.

"When you look at the fact that the head coach and the general manager said this is the right move, the only thing I can do is support it," Snyder said. "And that's what I've done, and it's been great.

"I've spent a little time with him, and he's really a good guy."

Snyder also said Jackson doesn't get enough credit for doing charity work.

The Redskins lured Jackson from the NFC East rival Eagles, where the three-time Pro Bowler was scrutinized for questionable work habits and off-field issues.

Snyder also said it's time for people to "focus on reality" concerning American Indian matters instead of criticizing the team's nickname.

"We understand the issues out there, and we're not an issue," Snyder said. "The real issues are real-life issues, real-life needs, and I think it's time that people focus on reality."

Challenged by those who consider the name "Redskins" offensive, Snyder and his staff recently traveled to American Indian reservations and last month established a foundation to assist tribes. He had declined requests to answer questions about the foundation until Tuesday.

Snyder has insisted he will not change the Redskins name, calling it a "badge of honor." He did not directly answer when asked to respond to those who say the foundation is a way of throwing money at the problem to placate critics. He instead cited the work behind the creation of the foundation.

Third strike for Giant?

A person with knowledge of the situation said New York Giants safety Will Hill is facing a possible third suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The person confirmed that Hill failed another drug test. Teams and the league do not discuss such allegations because players have a right to privacy under the league's drug policy.

Hill could face a suspension of six games to a year depending on what the tests showed.

- Associated Press