The NFL conditionally reinstated Josh Brent as a member of the Dallas Cowboys on Tuesday, contingent on the defensive tackle serving a 10-game suspension for his January conviction of intoxication manslaughter.
Brent, who was responsible for the death of Cowboys practice squad member Jerry Brown in a 2012 accident, is eligible to visit the team facility after Week 6. He can begin practicing with the team provided he complies with a list of conditions, including evaluation, treatment and counseling.
If Brent exhibits any alcohol-related conduct or activity, he faces immediate suspension -- or perhaps even a banishment from the NFL.
After the 10-week suspension expires, he will be considered for full reinstatement following an additional report from the NFL's substance abuse program advisors. Brent would not be able to play before Week 12, as the team has a bye in Week 11.
Now 26 years old, the seventh-round pick from the 2010 Supplemental Draft has recorded 44 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 39 career games.
Brent announced last July that he was retiring from football to focus on getting the priorities in his life in order. Now nearly three months removed from his jail term, he wants back in the game.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had promised Brown's mother that the organization would not turn its back on Brent, who was a close friend of her son. Against a wave of negative publicity, Jones has held a steady course in supporting a player who would have otherwise been cast out of the league.
UPDATE: Brent will appeal the decision, according to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, per a source close to the player. Earlier Tuesday evening, Brent's agent Peter Schaffer told ProFootballTalk.com's Mike Florio of Brent's decision to appeal.
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