IRVING, Texas – The Cowboys have released a statement regarding defensive tackle Jay Ratliff's arrest last week for driving while intoxicated.
The arrest occurred a month and a half after teammate Josh Brent was charged with intoxication manslaughter following a car crash that resulted in the death of linebacker Jerry Brown.
The following statement was released by former Cowboys player Calvin Hill, who's a consultant in the Cowboys' player development program:
"Having recently experienced the most tragic of circumstances regarding this issue, we, as an organization, understand the ultimate consequences of driving while impaired.
The critical goal is to effect the decision making process in the hours before the wrong decision is made.
*Our player assistance programs in the areas of preventing incidents such as these are at the highest level in professional sports, but we are always looking to do better and for ways to improve. We will continue to draw upon the best expertise and resources available, both internally and from outside the organization, to work toward being the best in the areas of education, prevention, and effecting the right decisions. *
We have been in communication with Jay Ratliff regarding this incident, and we will monitor the legal process and work within the NFL guidelines for player behavior moving forward."
