INDIANAPOLIS — Redskins linebacker Reuben Foster remains on the NFL’s Commissioner Exempt list months after his charges for a domestic violence arrest were dropped.
While the Redskins are waiting to see if Foster will be suspended in 2019, team President Bruce Allen said Friday “it’s time” for the linebacker to play football.
“We consider him strongly,” Allen said when asked how Foster fits in the team’s evaluation at inside linebacker. “We’ll see what happens. But no, he’s on the roster. He hasn’t played yet and he has to abide by all of our rules, but we’re hoping for him and us that he’s able to play.”
Foster was arrested in November on domestic violence charges after his ex-girlfriend said the linebacker slapper her with an open hand. Foster’s arrest, his third of 2018, led the San Francisco 49ers to release him.
Days later, the Redskins claimed Foster off waivers — a move that was heavily criticized at the time.
In January, Foster’s charges were dismissed. Allen later told reporters at the Senior Bowl he did not expect a suspension for Foster, though the NFL can still issue punishment for the incident.
Foster won’t be eligible to play until he’s removed from the exempt list.
“The charges have been dropped,” Allen said. “There are no complaints, so it’s time for him to play football.”
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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