The New York Jets will be without one of their top defensive linemen for the first four games of the 2015 season. Sheldon Richardson was suspended for four games earlier this month for violating the league's substance abuse policy, leaving a hole in the middle of the defense for rookie Leonard Williams to fill.
Granted, the Jets already have one of the best defensive lines with Williams, Muhammad Wilkerson, and Damon Harrison, but there's no doubting Richardson's absence will be felt.
"It's a tough loss for the team," Revis told reporters. "I had a conversation with him. I think he understands how devastating that is for our team."
Revis said it's not so much that he's upset about it, he's just trying to "share some wisdom on him a little bit."
Other players, such as center Nick Mangold and linebacker Quinton Coples realize he made a mistake, but believe Richardson will come back hungry.
"We're going to stand behind him and wish him all the best while he's out," Coples said. "And then when he comes back, we already know what to expect from him."
"It's an unfortunate mistake, but I know Sheldon is going to continue to work while he's not with us [once the regular season begins] and come back ready to go," Mangold added.
Richardson will be eligible to return to game action in Week 6 against the Washington Redskins, however he can participate in all offseason activities.
(h/t NJ.com)
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