Report: DJ Swearinger ignored instructions to stop criticizing coaches

The Washington Redskins’ decision to release DJ Swearinger after he publicly criticized coaching came as a surprise to some, but it apparently has been a long time coming.

Swearinger criticized defensive coordinator Greg Manusky for not playing more zone against Tennessee quarterback Blaine Gabbert during Saturday’s loss. On Monday, Swearinger was called into coach Jay Gruden’s office and told that the team was parting ways with him.

While the decision may seem abrupt for a Pro Bowl alternate after one instance of blistering public criticism, Swearinger had been repeatedly warned to tone down such criticisms, according to Mike Jones of USA Today. When he didn’t do so, Washington decided it had had enough.

According to a person w knowledge of the situation, Swearinger had been instructed repeatedly during his time w Skins to stop airing criticisms of teammates or coaches, but he continued to do so. After Saturday, team felt like enough was enough.

— Mike Jones (@ByMikeJones) December 24, 2018

Swearinger has left himself in a somewhat awkward situation with the Pro Bowl coming up. Ultimately, it sounds like he has no one to blame but himself.