by ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders have disciplined a handful of players for violating a league rule about drinking on a crew plane, but the league will take no further action, a source confirmed to ESPN on Friday.
The NFL sent a memo from Commissioner Roger Goodell to each team Friday afternoon reminding them of the rule and that violations would result in “significant disciplinary action.” Following the Tennessee Titans’ win over the Green Bay Packers Thursday night, Titans offensive coordinator Todd Downing was arrested early Friday for drunk driving.
Washington quarterback Taylor Heinicke was among a few players shown in video with alcohol following Monday’s win in Philadelphia. On the team plane, the players mimicked Minnesota’s celebration with quarterback Kirk Cousins by placing chains around Heinicke’s neck. He was shown holding Busch Light beer.
On Tuesday morning, Washington coach Ron Rivera called the league to update them on his disciplinary plans. He then brought it up in a team meeting. What disciplinary action he took is uncertain.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said, “The league reviewed the matter this week and we are pleased with the discipline being exercised by the club. The league will take no further action.”
The Commanders did not supply the alcohol, a source said.
According to the source, the memo said: “In light of recent events, clubs are reminded that league policy is to prohibit alcoholic beverages, including beer, in the locker rooms, training or office facilities or while traveling on team buses or planes at all times prohibit during pre-season, regular season or post-season. This applies to all players, coaches, club staff and guests traveling with your team.”
The memo reminded teams that the policy had been in effect for many years.
“The provision of alcohol at club facilities or when traveling poses significant and unnecessary risks to the league, its players, coaches and others,” the statement said. “Violations of this important policy will be taken seriously and will result in significant disciplinary action.
“Each club should ensure that its travel arrangements do not include the provision of alcohol at any time and should also take appropriate steps to confirm that alcohol (whether beer or any other alcoholic beverage) is not available at its facility.”
After Monday’s win, Washington’s young players celebrated with enthusiasm in the dressing room – loud music, dancing and singing. While Rivera said he appreciates their energy, he wants them to behave differently after wins.
“We’re far from there,” Rivera said Tuesday. “The best part is that it was their first time there. People say you act like you’ve been there, well I’ll give them a little grief. I understand. I appreciate it. The energy and excitement we need to understand now, pretend you’ve been there because now you’ve been there.
NFL Network first reported on commanders’ discipline.
