Ainge Checks Into Rehab, No Schedule For Return

by David_Wyatt on Aug 4, 2010 8:10 AM EDT

Manish Mehta reports on the disappointing news regarding 3rd/4th string QB Erik Ainge:

CORTLAND - Jets quarterback Erik Ainge recently entered a drug treatment/rehab facility for "recreational issues," according to sources. The Jets placed the fourth-year pro on the reserve/non-football illness list before the start of training camp.

A team source told the Daily News that the Jets are "very disappointed" in what appears to be a relapse for Ainge and don't have a timetable for his return.

This would be Ainge's second strike under the league's substance abuse policies, which means that he would be subject to an eight-game suspension upon his return. Ainge, who hasn't taken a regular-season snap in his first three seasons, was suspended for four games without pay in 2008 for violating the league's policy on anabolic steroids and related substances.

It's never easy to comment on these situations, and it's extremely disappointing from a team perspective. He was already on the bubble, and this might of just burst it.

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wow, I had a bad feeling when he went on the reserve/non-football illness list. I think your right about his bubble bursting. Twice in a relatively young career, I mean all you have to do is not screw up and you have one of the greatest jobs in the world. Play football all week, and then get to watch pro games from the sideline. Oh and you get at least 400-500K a week. So sad.

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by Mark D on Aug 4, 2010 8:39 AM EDT reply actions

I guess this means O’Connell is #3 when all is said and done.

by Judgegavel on Aug 4, 2010 9:25 AM EDT reply actions

i'm interested to see what we can get from o'connell

"Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier, the cigars taste better. The trees are greener."

by NJ Champ on Aug 4, 2010 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions

Too Bad...

…as a QB, we knew Ainge wasn’t climbing over anybody here. As a person, it’s sad! Privilege has a way of blinding people.
BTW, I believe Clemens should be the #2…he knows the system & deserves it, also Brunnell is a great mentor for the Sanchise!

by rcoolc66 on Aug 4, 2010 11:40 AM EDT reply actions

With the logjam we have at quarterback, I’m shocked he’s not being cut. The guy hasn’t played a snap and he’s already on his second drug violation? Even if he panned out as a solid backup, he’s an enormous risk and a year-long suspension waiting to happen.

by nationalist88 on Aug 4, 2010 11:42 AM EDT reply actions

I think he will be, but right now when we don’t need to trim the roster….I think it’s best to offer the guy some support to help him get through it.

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by David_Wyatt on Aug 4, 2010 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions

Makes sense. It’s a shame. I’m just grateful this didn’t happen to Holmes, Edwards or Cromartie; or any other key player with character issues the media would’ve expected it from.

by nationalist88 on Aug 4, 2010 12:39 PM EDT up reply actions

I guess because his profile isn’t the highest not many people are paying attention. I’ve actually read very little about it, which regardless of profile….is a little strange.

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by David_Wyatt on Aug 4, 2010 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions