FRISCO, Texas – Despite getting a one-year suspension from the NFL on Thursday, Randy Gregory is in the future plans for the Dallas Cowboys.
That's at least what owner/general manager Jerry Jones said on Friday when addressing the media about a variety of topics as his team enjoys a bye on the first weekend of the NFL playoffs.
"I do have reason to be encouraged about his future," Jones said of Gregory, who was given a one-year suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. "We'll continue to support Randy in every way. He is one of the favorites with his teammates, one of the favorites with his coaches, has shown us his potential."
Gregory served both a four-game and then a 10-game suspension this season, but was allowed to play in the Cowboys' final two regular-season games. Gregory recorded his first NFL sack last week against the Eagles.
Jones said he was not surprised with the NFL's ruling but didn't address other specific questions regarding Gregory's suspension and a possible appeal.
"Can't really comment on really any of the details of the ruling or to anticipated plans regarding the ruling. All I will say is it was not a surprise in terms of them dismissing his arguments at the hearing," Jones said. "Right now, I'm not at liberty to talk about what we'll do regarding specifically the ruling by the mediator and the league. Stay tuned there. I don't have any detail or anything I can comment about."
Jones did admit disappointment in not having Gregory for this playoff run and of course, all of next season. But he didn't call it a personal setback for Gregory.
"This is quite a convoluted, important problem in our society and some of the issues that involve Randy," Jones said. "He's genuine in his effort, he's genuine in his rehab effort, I don't have any comments as to my assessment of how successful that he has been. I can tell you, I can make this one thing, this does not reflect some of the success that he's having and has had."
