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Raiders GM Mike Mayock explains decision to waive Damon Arnette following ‘unacceptable’ video

Michael Hanich

By Michael Hanich

Published:

It has been a rough year for the Las Vegas Raiders as they continue to have problems off the field. Former Ohio State cornerback Damon Arnette was released by Las Vegas general manager Mike Mayock following a series of disturbing videos that featured Arnette threatening to kill someone on Instagram.

Arnette was in his second year with Las Vegas after being drafted in the first round (No. 19 overall pick) in the 2020 NFL Draft. Arnette had not played since Week 4, following a groin injury.

Mayock commented on the decision via a conference call on Monday:

“Today, we waived Damon Arnette. Very painful decision,” said Mayock. “We spent significant time, effort, and resources trying to help him in every facet of his life. There have been a series of bad decisions over the past year or so, but We cannot stand for the video of Damon Arnette with a gun threatening to take a life. The content was unacceptable.”

Mayock went on to say that he believes Arnette can still be successful, but some details of his life must be cleaned up first:

“On a personal note, I’ve talked to Damon, his dad, and a couple of others in his life,” Mayock explained. “From my perspective, he’s a very talented young man with a good heart. If he cleans up his life, I know he can make a living in the NFL. But not now with the Raiders.”

His release comes six days after the incident where Henry Ruggs III killed a young woman and her dog while driving under the influence. Early last month, Jon Gruden was released as head coach following a string of racist and misogynistic e-mails.

Michael Hanich