Jerry Jones on Randy Gregory ruling: 'We don't agree':
The Dallas Cowboys knew what was coming regarding Randy Gregory.
They knew, but they don't appreciate it one iota.
"We anticipated [the suspension of Randy Gregory]," said Jones, via 105.3FM the Fan on Friday morning. "We knew the circumstances.
"We don't agree with them but we do know the circumstances."
On Thursday, the NFL handed down a one-year ban on the second-year defensive end for what they deemed to be another violation of the league's substance abuse policy stemming from a drug test that was reportedly missed.
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Some sources speculate the test was to be administered at a time when Gregory was actually in a rehabilitation facility, having entered after the previous failed screening that landing him a total suspension of 14 games.
"He's genuine in his rehab process," said Jones in his press conference on Friday afternoon. "I do have reason to be encouraged about his future.
"I hope and expect Randy Gregory to be back on the field."
Jones would not go into specifics only to note the case is still "active" and has a myriad of "possible outcomes". The comments bring to mind the Supreme Court battle between the NFL and New England Patriots QB Tom Brady over the league's verdict stemming from deflated footballs in the 2014-15 AFC Playoff game.
"His options are still to be possibly exercised," Jones noted.
"This is a highly sensitive time for comments."
The 2015 second round draft pick went on to appeal this latest ruling and, despite reportedly splitting with his representation just days before, the NFL moved forward with both the hearing and the subsequent sanctions. Gregory is now banned from participating in both this postseason and the entirety of the 2017 regular season, as well as being present at the team facility.
Head coach Jason Garrett says the Cowboys haven't given up on him, though.
Gregory would need to apply for reinstatement after his one-year band and, if the Cowboys make the following postseason, he could miss those as well unless league commissioner Roger Goodell grants him eligibility expeditiously.
Something that has never been the calling card.
In reality, Gregory may not see the field until the 2018 season after playing just two games this year. By the time he's eligible to again take the field for the Cowboys, he will have played in only 14 out of a possible 48 regular season games since being drafted 60th overall.
