Browns release troubled WR Stallworth
February 8, 2010
CLEVELAND (AP)—Donte’ Stallworth(notes) will get the chance to resurrect his NFLcareer, but it won’t happen in Cleveland.
The Browns released the troubled wide receiver on Monday, wasting littletime after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Friday that Stallworth would bereinstated following the Super Bowl.
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Stallworth was suspended for the 2009 season by Goodell after he pleadedguilty to killing a pedestrian while driving drunk in Florida. He spent 24 daysin jail.
“I think he’s in a better place than he was,” Goodell said on Friday,adding that he met with Stallworth about a month ago. “I think he recognizeswhat he did and the horrific nature and the unfortunate outcome, and I thinkhe’s prepared himself to get back in and play.”
Stallworth, 29, spent one season with the Browns, catching 17 passes for 170yards and one touchdown in 2008 while battling injuries. A college star atTennessee, he has also played with New England, Philadelphia and New Orleanssince the Saints drafted him in the first round in 2002.
Browns coach Eric Mangini dodged questions about Stallworth’s future withthe team throughout the season. Since then, Mike Holmgren took over as presidentof the Browns. The team released a one sentence statement on Monday statingStallworth’s contract had been terminated.
Stallworth struck 59-year-old crane operator Mario Reyes the morning ofMarch 14 in Miami. He pleaded guilty June 16 to DUI manslaughter, asecond-degree felony, and was suspended by Goodell two days later.
“I will carry the burden of Mr. Reyes’ death for the rest of my life,”Stallworth said in a statement at the time. “I urge NFL fans not to judge NFLplayers or me based on my tragic lapse in judgment. I am a good person who did abad thing. I will use the period of my suspension to reflect, fulfill myobligations, and use this experience to make a positive impact on the lives ofthose who look up to NFL players.”
Stallworth signed a seven-year, $35 million contract with Cleveland in 2008and received a $4.5 million bonus the night before the crash.