The New York Jets experienced controversy as a result of the team's handling of guard Kelechi Osemele's shoulder injury and eventual decision to waive him.
Jets general manager Joe Douglas provided his rationale for making the decision and felt that it was ‘best for the team.' He wouldn't get into details about the situation but noted that the team prioritizes the safety of their players, which seems to double down on the organization's stance that Osemele could have played.
“We felt we did what was best for the team,” Douglas said. “As an organization, we respect and follow the league’s processes and procedures. Just moving forward, we’re not going to comment on the specifics as it pertains to the situation. The one thing that I will clarify: The safety and well-being of all of our players is paramount. It’s always a top priority for us. We have a great staff. They work together and they make sure that care and safety happens for every player.”
The situation is not over because Osemele is likely going to file a grievance against the Jets and could potentially receive the remaining balance of his 2019 salary. In addition, he could recuperate his funds from the fine that he was made to pay.
Osemele was set to make $9.85 million in total for this season and was guaranteed $5.2 million of that figure. He also had to pay the value of his game checks worth $579,000 for each of the games that he missed since the Jets believed his absences were unexcused.
It remains to be seen when this situation will come to a conclusion. It has been one of the more strange situations of the 2019 NFL season.
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