THE CANADIAN PRESS
EDMONTON — The Edmonton Eskimos released veteran defensive tackle Adam Braidwood on Thursday.
Edmonton selected Braidwood first overall in 2006 out of Washington State. But a persistant knee injury forced the native of Delta, B.C., to sit out the entire 2008 and ’09 seasons.
He registered 64 tackles, 12 sacks and scored a touchdown in 46 career CFL games.
But Braidwood, 26, is also facing charges stemming from two separate incidents last year and was released on bail Jan. 27.
"After a lengthy discussion with Adam this week we have mutually agreed to release him from his contract," Eskimos general manager Eric Tillman said in a statement. "This move is not being made to pass judgment on the legal process, but rather an acknowledgment that no resolution appears likely until his trial, which doesn’t begin until 2012.
"Adam has indicated that his total focus is on the legal case, which is understandable. At age 26, he’s still a young man who has a chance to do many positive things with his life. It’s our hope and prayer that he will do so."
Added Braidwood: "I really enjoyed my time with the Eskimos. The Edmonton fans and the organization were very good to me and I will always appreciate that."
