The Jets seemed to be setting up their offensive backfield nicely after signing running back Mike Goodson to a 3-year $6.9 million contract this offseason. Unfortunately Goodson was arrested on drug and weapon possession shortly after signing his new deal.
To compound matters he was a no show during all of the Jets training camp being placed on the did-not report list.
The team remained quiet about the running backs status but general manager John Idzik recently hinted in an interview on WFAN sports talk radio Goodson would return soon.With the release of running back Joe McKnight earlier today many began to speculate this would mean the return of Goodson and reports of a potential return surfaced.
The Jets have made his it official placing Goodson on the active/non-football injury/illness list but the NFL handed down a four regular season game suspension without pay for “violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.”
Goodson will be placed on the reserve/suspended list after final cut-down on August 31st and will not be allowed to practice with the team but can do conditioning along with attend meetings. He will not occupy a spot on the 53-man roster during his suspension.
Below are statements from both the Jets and Goodson regarding his return:
STATEMENT FROM THE NEW YORK JETS
“Mike Goodson returned to the team today after taking time away to focus on a personal matter. While we welcome Mike back to the organization, we have had direct conversations to make our expectations very clear as we work together to help him move forward in a positive manner, both on and off the field. During his suspension, Mike will be permitted to attend meetings and condition on an individual basis at our practice facility. However, he will not be permitted to practice or play.”
STATEMENT FROM MIKE GOODSON
“I’ve been away from the team to take care of some important personal things. The time was helpful to me and now that I am back, I am going to do everything I can to contribute to the team. I appreciate all of the support from the Jets organization and I’m thankful to be back with my teammates.”
Source: NewYorkJets.com
The Jets were forced to make a roster spot for Goodson and have released tight end Hayden Smith as the team needs to keep the roster at 75 or below until Saturday when it is cut to 53.