Jack Del Rio downplayed the Jan. 6, 2021 riots at the Capitol last week and questioned why the intense protests in the summer following George Floyd’s death didn’t receive the same scrutiny. His comments caused a wave of criticism and controversy that the Washington Commanders do not need
Del Rio called the Jan. 6 riot a “dust-up at the Capitol” and later attempted to backtrack on his remarks.
“I made comments earlier today in referencing the attack that took place on the United States Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Referencing that situation as a dust-up was irresponsible and negligent, and I am sorry,” Del Rio said in a statement.
“I stand by my comments condemning violence in communities across the country. I say that while also expressing my support as an American citizen for peaceful protest in our country. I have fully supported all peaceful protests in America. I love, respect and support all my fellow coaches, players and staff that I work with and respect their views and opinions.”
He was still fined $100K by the team.
On Wednesday, Robert Griffin shared his thoughts on this situation.
Griffin said Del Rio’s decision to compare the events was disrespectful and wild.
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The free-agent quarterback then went on to explain why he believes Del Rio’s comments were irresponsible.
“When you have a platform to encourage change you don’t diminish the events on Jan. 6th to a ‘dust-up’ while trying to change the narrative on the George Floyd protest by dumbing them down to looting and destroying businesses. It’s insensitive and uniformed,” Griffin wrote. “Jack Del Rio never mentioned WHY the protest happened or his understanding of the plight of the Black community in this country, where most of his players come from. Just wrongly attempting to deflect the heat from the Jan. 6th insurrection onto the protest about George Floyd.
“We are tired of the faulty comparisons and moving goalposts. Yes, those who loot and destroy businesses should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. But a violent assault on the Capitol, incited by the President because he didn’t like the election results has no comparison. Jack’s question lacked the necessary context it needed and he meant exactly what he said. How can you lead a majority black defense and turn your back on the very community those players come from. Do you think your black players are going to go the extra mile for you after that?”
Head coach Ron Rivera said Del Rio apologized to the team and offered to meet with players over the comments he made.
Jack Del Rio has since delted his Twitter account and likely plans to keep his personal thoughts to himself and off social media.
