What the hell? You know, just when you think that Terrell Owens can’t get any more attention, just when you think that the drama surrounding his relationship with the Philadelphia Eagles can’t get any deeper and just when you think that the world can’t get any stranger, something like this happens.
Owens, a starting wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles until about a week ago, received a four-game suspension without pay. He was sentenced to deactivation for the season and, as far as Philly is concerned, the rest of Owens’ career.
Needless to say, reactions have been mixed. Many rejoiced at this move by the Eagles, which was in response to an interview in which he said that the Eagles showed “a lack of class” for not publicly recognizing his 100th career touchdown catch, and that the team would be better off with Green Bay’s Brett Favre as quarterback. This was only the latest in a long, long series of T.O. making an A.S.S. of himself. Many fans saw this move as one that was a long time coming.
Indeed, before this season began, some wondered as to whether he would play with the Eagles at all after Philadelphia’s Super Bowl loss last year to the New England Patriots. Owens has a history of questioning the Eagles organization as a whole, and the qualifications of quarterback Donovan McNabb in particular.
Seems, normal enough, no?
That is, until you’re told who is now advocating on Owens’ behalf.
The Rev. Jesse Jackson and Ralph Nader are not names that frequently appear in this section. Nonetheless, for some inexplicable reason, both have decided to involve themselves in this affair.
Jackson said the level of punishment could have been warranted if Owens had been caught shaving points, selling drugs, carrying a gun or fighting fans without sufficient restraint.
“This does not warrant a one-year ban from the game,” Jackson said, adding that the Eagles should release Owens to the open market or free agency if they no longer want to associate with him.
Nader has already called for the suspension to be rescinded.
Why?!
The three things you’re never supposed to bring up in polite conversation are politics, religion and sports. And God help you if you try to mix any of them. Our nation is built upon the principle of the separation of church and state. However, it seems to me that the same concept should apply to sports, at least to a point (the use of illegal steroids by athletes should be prosecuted).
I fail to understand either of these gents would involve themselves in what has now become a full-blown circus. It’s certainly not to boost their popularity. If they were looking for a noble, victimized athlete to come to rescue a boy did they back the wrong horse.
And what’s more, their claims that Owens’ punishment is too severe and could damage his career are completely unfounded. Owens will play professional football again. As much trouble as he is, he is one of the greatest, if not the greatest receiver in the league today. And as for any financial hardships….please. He probably made enough on the infamous “Nicolette Sheriden in a towel” gimmick alone to keep him fat and happy for years. Factor in product endorsements, and T.O. will be A.O.K.
Furthermore, doesn’t a team have the right to dismiss a player for reasons other than engaging in illegal activities? A sportsman has certain obligations to a team other than showing up and playing. Loyalty has to count for something. I think the Eagles should be applauded for what they’ve done: They’ve validated the idea that football is still not a game completely dominated by talent. There’s still more to it than that. The Eagles have sent the message loud and clear: Attitude and character still mean something in the NFL.
I have no clue why Jackson and Nader decided to side with Owens, or to get involved in this, at all. However, this move seems to stand about as much chance of success as their respective presidential campaigns. It is not readily apparent that they have any credibility or authority or even relevance on this issue. I think the question on everyone’s mind is, “What the hell are these guys doing here?” I think they might be asking themselves that question before the end.
