Raiders DE Chandler Jones away from team for 'private matter' after Instagram posts
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Chandler Jones is not with the team after he made several social media posts criticizing the team.
Head coach Josh McDaniels told reporters Wednesday Jones was not at the facility and would not give a reason.
"It's a personal situation and a private matter," McDaniels said. "We have dealt with it, and I am not going to talk about it."
The two-time first team All-Pro's absence comes after he posted on his Instagram his displeasure with the organization on Tuesday. The posts were deleted, but according to reports, Jones said, "it’s a shame" he had to go to a local gym to work out during the season. He criticized McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler, adding he didn't "wanna play for the Raiders" if the two people stayed in control of the franchise.
The posts came after Jones said on Monday he "can’t wait to play this year!" and he was "feelin great in practice!"
NEVER MISS A SNAP: Sign up for our NFL newsletter for exclusive content
Jones' status for the season opener against the Denver Broncos on Sunday is uncertain. He was listed as the starter on the team's unofficial depth chart Tuesday. Last season was Jones' first season in Las Vegas, starting in 15 games with 38 tackles and 4.5 sacks. Jones also infamously scored the game-winning touchdown against the New England Patriots on a botched lateral on the final play.
Contributing: Associated Press
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Chandler Jones away from Raiders after criticizing team on Instagram
