Nigerian US-based NFL player, Ikemefuna Enemkpali, known as IK, has been sacked by the New York Jets on Tuesday for punching team-mate
In the wake of a locker room altercation that left Jets quarterback Geno Smith with a broken jaw, linebacker Ikemefuna Enemkpali, known as IK, was immediately released by the New York Jets on Tuesday.
IK who is a free agent was selected by the New York Jets in the 6th round (210th overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft on a $510,000 contract.
According to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com, Geno Smith is expected to miss between 6 and 10 weeks after Enemkpali punched him.
Jets head coach, Todd Bowles was extremely displeased with the incident, which will test his quarterback depth significantly. “There was an altercation in the locker room. Had nothing to do with football. Something very childish. He got cold-cocked, sucker-punched, whatever you want to call it, in the jaw.”
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Below is was what happened:
IK released a press statement to apologize for his actions. He said: “I apologize to the Jets organization, coaches, teammates and fans. Geno and I let our frustration get the best of us, but I should have just walked away from the situation. I deeply regret and apologize for my actions. It was never my intention to harm anyone. I appreciate the opportunity I had with the Jets.”
IK’s full name is Ikemefuna Chinedum Enemkpali. He’s 24 and was born and raised in Pflugerville, Texas. He has 2 sisters, Nneka and Chinelo, and one brother, Osi.