Titans coach passionately defends Jordan Elliott after gun-related incident led to release
Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh passionately defended defensive lineman Jordan Elliott after the team released him following a gun-related incident at practice.
Saleh confirmed reports that Elliott retrieved a gun from his car in the parking lot following an altercation with center JC Latham at practice, but he passionately defended the 28-year-old player. The coach emphasized that while rules regarding guns on property must be followed, the situation deserves more nuanced consideration than a simple disciplinary action.
Character Defense
Saleh went to great lengths to defend Elliott's character, suggesting other NFL teams should consider acquiring him. "I will stand on the table for Jordan's character," Saleh stated. "My message to 31 other teams would be if you need a hell of a run stopping d-tackle that can help you on a playoff run, give me a call."
He's a good man. Had a terrible lapse in judgment that I recognized as a call for help more than a criminal act.
Mental Health Concerns
The coach framed the incident as potentially indicative of deeper mental health struggles, praising both the Titans organization and the NFL for taking time to evaluate the situation rather than reacting immediately. "This is a man who is a father, a great husband, he's never committed a crime in his entire life, and he pulled a gun in the parking lot," Saleh explained.
Saleh referenced the recent deaths by suicide of two NFL players, Marshawn Kneeland and Rondale Moore, suggesting such tragedies highlight the importance of recognizing signs that players may need help. While he stated Elliott was not suicidal, he suggested Kneeland and Moore may have shown signs that went unnoticed.
League Response
The Titans' decision to release Elliott came after the team and league conducted a thorough evaluation. The reason why I think the NFL and the organization did an outstanding job is because they paused and asked those questions and checked every single box with regards to getting him the help that he needs, Saleh said.
Saleh acknowledged the unfortunate nature of Elliott's release but suggested people within the organization view the situation differently than the public reaction. It's unfortunate the way it went down but as far as Jordan's concerned, I think people see it differently here than the knee-jerk reaction of the world, he concluded.
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