The Washington Football Team quickly stepped down from Derrius Guice on Friday after the back was arrested on charges of domestic violence.
During a video conference Monday, coach Ron Rivera explained the decision to cut Guice.
“I have made a decision that I believe was in the best interests of the organization, the players and our fans going forward,” Rivera said. “A very difficult decision. Every time you have to release a very talented young footballer, it’s always a difficult decision. But this kind of circumstance, this kind of situation, we take these accusations very, very seriously. And we had to make a decision. “Sometimes it’s one of those things where there are processes. … Every circumstance is unique, each one will be treated and treated differently, according to what we believe is best for the organization that is moving forward.”
Rivera said he spoke to players over the weekend and explained to him the circumstances and the choice to cut a talented young player.
“If it was the right decision, we would benefit from it,” he said. “If it is not, it will be up to me. I will take full responsibility as we move forward to make sure we do it the right way.”
Rivera refused to get the timeline as other factors involved in the release of Guice.
The running back is to be found with prosecutors of one count of crimes, misdemeanors of three attacks and battery and one count of property destruction. The alleged incidents took place earlier this year on February 14, March 3 and April 17 at Guice’s residence in Ashburn, Virginia. Authorities were made aware of the allegations on July 22. Guice turned himself in on Friday, Sheriff’s Office of Loudoun County (Virginia) confirmed to NFL.com.
The decision to cut Guice soon, while other players on the Washington roster, such as Reuben Foster, have been given second chances sits in stark contrast to the linebacker coming over PUP over the weekend.
Rivera noted that he had many conversations with Foster about his off-field issues and the linebacker had a chance to clear out the latest release. The coach is of the opinion that Foster greatly benefited from a change of landscape.
“Who knows, that’s what’s necessary in Derrius’ case,” Rivera said. “An opportunity to get a change of scenery.”
Similarly, Rivera noted that the situation with receiver Cody Latimer, who was placed on the Commissioner’s exemption list, was different, and the coach reiterated that “each situation is unique” and should be treated separately.
Rivera admitted it was not easy for the team to cut the second round round, but he is confident in the RB room, led by Adrian Peterson, Peyton Barber, Bryce Love and rookie Antonio Gibson, among others .
“We feel very good about the group of guys we have, we really do,” he said. “We think this is a group of guys who are talented. Again, it was a very difficult decision, trust me, it was real. Derrius is a talented young footballer. And, again, it’s one of those things where.” we’re trying to be ready for a season, and one thing we can not handle is situations, circumstances that are outside our realm. He will have to deal with some time and his chances of being prepared and ready for the season would be limited to be. “
