Washington Commanders defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. Scott Taetsch-USA TODAY Sports

Commanders' DC Jack Del Rio apologizes for calling Jan. 6 Capitol riots a 'dust-up'

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 6/8/22

Washington Commanders defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio issued an apology on Wednesday, just hours after referring to the riots last year at the U.S. Capitol as a "dustup."

"I made comments earlier today in referencing the attack that took place on the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021. Referencing that situation as a dust-up was irresponsible and negligent and I am sorry," Del Rio said in a statement posted on Twitter. "I stand by my comments condemning violence in communities across the country. I say that while also expressing my support as an American citizen for peaceful protest in our country. I have fully supported all peaceful protests in America. I love, respect, and support all fellow coaches, players, and staff that I work with and respect their views and opinions."

pic.twitter.com/wm29NXGGAn
— Jack Del Rio (@coachdelrio) June 8, 2022

Before Del Rio's outburst, Washington head coach Ron Rivera addressed whether or not his defensive coordinators' Tweets would impact the locker room.

"Not necessarily. And, again, if that ever becomes an issue, a situation, then we'll have that discussion," Rivera said. "But right now, it's something that I will deal with when it comes up."

Defensive tackle Jonathan Allen was asked about Del Rio's comments after Wednesday's OTA's.

"At the end of the day, you can have a difference in opinion and still respect one another, I feel like that's what our country is about, that's what our team is about," Allen said. "Me personally I don't care about his opinion, as long as he shows up every day and works hard, that's what I want from my defensive coordinator."

I asked Jonathan Allen about Jack Del Rio’s tweets - it’s a smart answer to a complicated question - “At the end of the day you can a difference of opinion and still respect one another” pic.twitter.com/mvVl0X0l5G
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) June 8, 2022