Eagles Want To Release WR Riley Cooper?

Update:

Eagles HC Chip Kelly told reporters that “there’s never been any question of cutting Riley [Cooper],” per John Gonzalez. “We care about Riley…we’re not going to just kick him to the street.”

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#Eagles announce WR Riley Cooper has been excused from all team activities as he seeks counseling for his recent actions.

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 2, 2013

Philadelphia Eagles Statement:

“As we have said, Riley Cooper will be seeking counseling and we have excused him from all team activities.This is all new territory and we are going to evaluate this timetable every step of the way. He will meet with professionals provided by the Eagles during this period of time to better help him understand how his words have hurt so many, including his teammates.”

Riley Cooper Statement:

“The last few days have been incredibly difficult for me. My actions were inexcusable. The more I think about what I did, the more disgusted I get. I keep trying to figure out how I could have said something so repulsive, and what I can do to make things better.

Right now, I think it’s important for me to take some time to reflect on this situation. The organization and my teammates have been extremely supportive, but I also realize that there are people who will have a tough time forgiving me for what I’ve done. The best thing for me, and for the team, is to step away for a period of time.

During this time I’m going to be speaking with a variety of professionals to help me better understand how I could have done something that was so offensive, and how I can start the healing process for everyone. As long as it takes, and whatever I have to do, I’m going to try to make this right.”

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Mike Freeman “continues to hear” that the Eagles want to release WR Riley Cooper.

Freeman adds that nothing is set in stone at this point, but he isn’t sure Cooper will play another down in NFL.

A video of Cooper was posted using a racial slur at a concert. He confessed that the video is of him and has offered an apology for his actions.

The Eagles decided to fine Cooper and help him seek outside assistance, rather than suspend him.

With Jeremy Maclin done for the season, Cooper appears to have a shot at securing the No. 2 receiver position this preseason. There were reports from Thursday that the Eagles locker room is divided on the issue of keeping Cooper on their roster. If so, Philadelphia could be forced to part ways Cooper.