Eagles release WR Josh Huff following arrest on gun, drug charges
The Eagles have released wide receiver Josh Huff following his arrest earlier this week, the team announced on Thursday.
Huff, 25, was arrested on Tuesday on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of illegal weapons (hollow-point bullets) and possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana after he was pulled over for speeding. He was released from custody after posting 10% of his $25,000 bail.
“First, I want to apologize to Mr. Lurie and and his family, my coaches and teammates, and all Eagles fans,” Huff said in a statement. “I'm sorry any action by me brought negative light to this organization. I want to thank the Lurie Family, Howie, this community and the entire Eagles organization for the opportunity I've had for the last three years. Most important, I want to let the fans and community as a whole know that I understand the responsibility I have as a professional athlete, and I will take all measures necessary to correct mistakes I have made.”
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The Eagles released a short statement following his arrest, saying they were aware of the incident and were still gathering information.
On Wednesday, Huff told the media that he believed all NFL players carry guns.
"I'm a professional athlete. What professional athlete don't have a gun?" Huff said, according to ESPN. "I have a wife and I have a son at home. My job is to protect them at all costs, and my job is to protect myself as well, even though I know I have security here, but I have to protect myself as well."
Huff was drafted by the Eagles in the third round of the 2014 draft. He has caught 13 passes for 72 yards and one touchdown this season. He practiced with the team this week, and Eagles coach Dough Pederson said Wednesday he had planned to play Huff against the Giants this weekend in spite of his arrest.
