Browns runningback apologizes for graphic Instagram post

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cleveland Browns running back Isaiah Crowell apologized Monday for a graphic Instagram post that drew the ire of many.

Crowell posted a drawing to Instagram that showed a hooded figure slashing the throat of a police officer. Under it, he posted the caption, "They give police all types of weapons and they continually choose to kill us....#Weak."

The NFL player quickly deleted the post, but screenshots of it were shared online.

Crowell issued an apology Monday, saying "Last week was an emotional and difficult week as we saw extreme acts of violence against black men across our country as well as against police officers in Dallas. I posted an image to Instagram in the midst of that emotion that I shouldn't have and immediately removed it. It was an extremely poor decision and I apologize for that mistake and for offending people."

The Cleveland Browns, however, have said Crowell will have to back his apology.

"We have spoken to Isaiah regarding his extremely disturbing and unacceptable social media decision,'' a team spokesperson said. "It was completely inappropriate and we have made him aware of our high level of disappointment.  Isaiah has apologized but also knows that just an apology is insufficient and that he must take steps to make a positive difference after a very negative and impactful post.''

You can see the post here. (Warning the link contains graphic content)

Cox Media Group