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New York Jets: Sheldon Richardson Pleads Not Guilty

By Nathan McKenna

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New York Jets’ defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson was arrested back in July for resisting arrest and some other traffic violations, including being clocked at over 143 MPH. Richardson has already been suspended for the first four games of the season, and could face more discipline from the league.Today it was announced that Sheldon Richardson will plead not guilty to his charges. This is big news.

While the New York Jets are seemingly prepared after drafting Leo Williams 6th overall, I do wonder how this will affect them going forward.

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Todd Bowles has already expressed his disappointment in Richardson and his lack of play against the first string has further shown his displeausre. I can’t blame Bowles for being disappointed in Richardson, nor can I blame the New York Jets organization for taking a wait and see approach with him going forward. I would like to know what they think of his decision.

Yes, it is HIS decision, and I would assume he must feel really good about pleading not guilty and have some strong evidence to counter a charge of driving at 143 mph. However, I do wonder if the organization would rather have him plead guilty and get it over with. Either way, it is up to him.

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His hearing will not be until the beginning of October, so technically the legal process will still be playing out. Therefore the NFL will probably wait for further discipline until next season. This has both Pros and Cons. It means the Jets will be deeper at defensive line after the first four games this year, but it could open up the possibility for Richardson to once again be suspended next season.

Obviously Richardson did not want a plea deal and thought fighting it in court was the best option for him. Hopefully in the long run it works out and he is able to play 12 games this season and 16 games next year. Either way, I hope Todd Bowles, Sheldon Richardson, and the New York Jets are all on the same page. I hope they all support Sheldon’s decision and this does not cause a further rift.

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While the organization has said they care about Sheldon the man, Richardson the football player is still a very important part of this team and organization as well.

October will be an interesting month for the Jets. Geno should have either returned already or will be returning in around the same time and Richardson will likely have a better idea of his NFL future. Jets fans should keep a close eye on October this year.

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