Falcons DT Babineaux said sorry for possessing marijuana

The Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux admitted Tuesday that he smoked pot and is facing a felony marijuana possession charge. He said Wednesday he is sorry “for being a distraction” to his family and the Falcons.

Babineaux said he is embarrassed and included Falcons owner Arthur Blank, general manager Thomas Dimitroff and Coach Mike Smith in his apology.


“First and foremost, I want to apologize for being a distraction to my family, to my teammates,” Babineaux said in his first public statement since his arrest Thursday night.

“I want to apologize to Mr. Blank, Coach Smith and Thomas Dimitroff and also the fans, most importantly. I’m embarrassed to be standing here in front of you guys, but as you guys are all aware, it’s an ongoing legal matter and I can’t talk about it or answer any questions. Thank you.”

Babineaux previously insisted that he was innocent and did not smoke and any marijuana although marijuana was found in his car. But Tuesday Gwinnett County police released a report which stated Babineaux told officers he was smoking marijuana while driving with a friend.

Babineaux still put on his Falcons jersey and started Sunday in Atlanta’s loss to the New Orleans Saints despite the drug issue. He is also listed as a starter on the team’s depth chart for this week’s game against the New York Jets. According to NFL rules, the Falcons do not violate any policy by starting Babineaux before NFL commissioner Roger Goodell makes any decision on the player because of the arrest.