Report: Marijuana Use Was Why Texans Released Sam Montgomery, Cierre Wood, And Willie Jefferson

Yesterday, seemingly out of nowhere, the Houston Texans released three rookies. Sam Montgomery (one of the team's third round picks in the 2013 NFL Draft), Cierre Wood (the team's third running back), and Willie Jefferson (a reserve outside linebacker and special teams contributor) were all placed on waivers by the Texans due to a nebulous "violation of team rules" at the team hotel the night before the game against the Chiefs in Kansas City. Montgomery and Jefferson quickly put out word that their release was simply the unfortunate result of getting caught smoking a cigar and that no illegal substances were involved. This explanation was naturally met with skepticism by many fans.

Turns out that skepticism was warranted. Tania Ganguli reports:

Three sources who wished to remain anonymous told ESPN.com that the violation occurred due to marijuana use.

Brooks Reed said it best, I reckon:

"I don't understand why they did it," Texans outside linebacker Brooks Reed said. "They had the opportunity of their lives and they just kind of threw it away. I don't have too much to say about it. It's really unfortunate. We lost a lot of depth for that game. They were great players and they had a lot of potential. We're just going to find more guys that are more dedicated to the cause."

Best of luck to Montgomery, Wood, and Jefferson as they attempt to continue their professional football careers. They're all talented enough that it's likely they find employment elsewhere, even with the scarlet letter for stupidity they're all going to sport for some time.

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