ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The season is over for Broncos star Kareem Jackson. Tuesday, the NFL suspended the safety for the final two games for violating the NFL policy and program on substances of abuse stemming from a Sept. 19 DUI arrest.
Jackson, 31, was cited for speeding and driving under the influence on Auraria Parkway in downtown Denver at 11:46 p.m., according to the summons. Monday, he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of driving while ability impaired. He received 12 months probation, a two-day suspended jail sentence, 24 hours of community service, participation with MADD’s Victim Impact Panel and a fine.
"I would like to apologize to the Broncos organization, my teammates & fans. I understand the severity in my lapse of judgement and I will certainly not make this mistake again," Jackson said. "I know I am fortunate to play in the NFL and am held to a high standard of professionalism and conduct."
Jackson is in his first season with the Broncos after signing a three-year, $33 million deal with $23 million guaranteed in March. He is making $3 million this season and will forfeit $352,941 in salary for his suspension. The Broncos released a statement Tuesday afternoon following the announced discipline.
"Kareem Jackson was arrested for driving under the influence on Thursday, Sept. 19. He immediately informed our team of the incident, which we promptly reported to the NFL and thoroughly reviewed as an organization. There are high standards for the personal conduct of all members of our organization, and we have expressed our extreme disappointment to Kareem for his poor judgment. Under the NFL Policy and Program on Substances of Abuse, he has been suspended for the Broncos' final two games of the 2019 season."
Teammates were hopeful of Jackson making his first Pro Bowl when the team is announced at 6 p.m. tonight. He represented the one impact player in a disappointing free-agent class. Cornerback Bryce Callahan failed to play because of a foot injury that required a screw to be removed and replaced. And right tackle Ja'Wuan James has logged 63 snaps and might not play again this season because of a lingering MCL injury in his left knee.
Jackson boasts 71 tackles, a forced fumble, and two interceptions. He missed the Jacksonville game with a hamstring injury.
