‘Pacman’ accepts suspension
Cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones accepted his one-game suspension for an offseason misdemeanor conviction, and he got emotional Thursday over the unwavering support he has received from Bengals owner Mike Brown.
Jones is suspended by the NFL for the season opener as a result of his confrontation with a hotel security employee and an obscenity-filled tirade against arresting police officers. He pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor charge.
In his first public comments since the suspension, Jones accepted responsibility and the suspension.
The Bengals apologized publicly after Jones was arrested in January and video of his comments to police were released.
Brown stood behind Jones and decided to keep him rather than release him, which had been discussed in the front office.
Several times on Thursday, Jones got emotional when Brown’s support was mentioned. He teared up and ended the interview when asked what it meant to have such strong support from the owner.
Ravens
An injury to quarterback Joe Flacco might open the door for Colin Kaepernick to join the Baltimore Ravens. Flacco missed the first full practice of training camp Thursday because of a back injury and is expected to be out for at least a week. Coach John Harbaugh said the team likely needs to bring in another quarterback and is considering Kaepernick, a free agent. Kaepernick drew significant attention for not standing for the traditional playing of the “Star-Spangled Banner” before games. However, Harbaugh called Kaepernick a “great guy” and views him as a viable option in Baltimore. The only other quarterbacks in camp are Ryan Mallett and Dustin Vaughan from Division II West Texas A&M.
Vikings
Teddy Bridgewater said he hasn’t had any setbacks in his recovery from the massive injury to his left knee nearly a year ago in practice. The fourth-year quarterback spoke to reporters Thursday for the first time since he was hurt, with a fountain of optimism about his progress. He said there’s no doubt he’ll return to game action, though acknowledging the timetable remains uncertain.