Giants finally release Josh Brown, John Mara cites team's 'misguided' actions

The New York Giants released kicker Josh Brown, who admitted to abusing his wife in written documents, after the team previously said it would “not turn our backs on him.”

Brown was left home from the Giants’ game against the Los Angeles Rams in London in Week 7 and was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list by the NFL, granting the team a roster spot to replace him. But the Giants decided to move on.

Giants co-owner John Mara explained (via ESPN) why the team released Brown now and not when the allegations of abuse first surfaced, or after the shocking documents in which Brown admitted he abused his wife were released by the King County (Wash.) Sheriff’s Office.

“We believed we did the right thing at every juncture in our relationship with Josh,” Mara said. “Our beliefs, our judgments and our decisions were misguided. We accept that responsibility. We hope that Josh will continue to dedicate himself to rehabilitation, and to becoming a better person and father.

“We will continue to support him in his efforts to continue counseling, and we hope that Josh and his family can find peace and a positive resolution. We have great respect and feel strongly about our support for the good people who work tirelessly and unconditionally to aid the victims of domestic violence and who bring awareness to the issue.

“We have been partners with My Sisters’ Place (a domestic violence shelter and advocate based in Westchester, New York for nearly 20 years. The leadership of that organization has provided invaluable insight as we have considered our decisions in this matter. We value and respect their opinion, and we look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”

Brown also issued a statement hours before he was released, saying he “never struck” his now ex-wife but that “abuse comes in many forms.”

It’s unclear if Brown’s statement had any bearing on the team finally deciding to release him. But this much is clear: The Giants caved into public pressure after selling their souls to protect a 37-year-old kicker.