Former Alabama wide receiver Christion Jones It has been released by Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League after a homophobic tweet from the recipient on World Pride Day. Jones has played in the CFL since 2017 after an unsuccessful season in the NFL.
In Jones’ tweet that has since been removed, the former Crimson Tide student wrote: “Ima, keep it that real … Man is not supposed to be with a man.” A woman is not supposed to be with another woman. THIS IS ME! Live life safely. “
On Sunday afternoon, the Eskimos announced on Twitter that they were going to release Jones after the reaction of his tweet.
“We support the LGBTQ2 + community and strongly condemn the language used by Christion Jones“The statement said.” There is no place for such comments about our team. Jones has been released from the list. “
Jones was a three-star recruit made up of 247Sports Composite in Adamsville, Alabama, and was the 29th pick for cornerback in the class of 2011. After switching to wide receiver during his second season in Alabama, Jones caught 85 passes for 1,030 yards with seven touchdowns in the next three seasons.
After not being selected in the 2015 NFL Draft, Jones signed as a free agent with the Miami Dolphins. By 2017 Jones had landed in the CFL by signing with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and shortly thereafter he was traded to the Edmonton Eskimos.
During three CFL seasons, Jones has played primarily as a kicker, recording eight receptions for 49 yards. He has also returned 91 kickoffs for an average of 22.5 yards and 155 punts for an average of 12.0 yards with three touchdowns.
The CFL also released a statement after Jones’ release.
“We at the CFL hold the Diversity is Strength banner high,” the statement said. “Our league does not claim perfection, but it strives to be inclusive, accept and celebrate our differences, and respect and honor human rights. There is no place in our league for comments that belittle people based on their religion, race, gender, or sexual orientation. As Pride Month continues, we stay with the LGBTQ + community. We should all say no to hate and yes to love. “
Before being released, Jones tweeted an apology.
“From Janis Irwin. “This is a growth opportunity.” She is absolutely right. My words were deeply hurtful, painful, and of no avail. I added to the struggle of a community, living a life free from oppression of any kind. I sincerely apologize. I was wrong. “
