Darrell Davis: Riders couldn't reform Cox

Here’s a soft-clap for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who have justifiably parted ways with troubled defensive back Justin Cox.

It’s a matter of principle.

That’s what Riders boss Chris Jones said. When someone cites principles, who can argue with that?

Cox has three times been charged with domestic violence. The Riders released him after his third charge. After being acquitted in court because of a lack of evidence, Cox said he wanted to re-join the Riders.

But the Riders decided they no longer wanted Cox to be part of the team. That’s laudable. It’s too bad the Riders couldn’t help Cox with his issues, but they did give him the opportunity to reform. Someone doesn’t get charged three times with the same crime by accident.

After Jones announced the Riders were moving on without Cox, the CFL announced it would still not allow any team to sign him. That’s even more surprising than the Riders’ move. But it shows the league and the Riders are in lockstep when it comes to condemning domestic violence.