The Edmonton Elks have released American defensive back Leon O’Neal Jr. after he was ejected during the team’s most recent game.
The six-foot-one, 205-pound native of Cypress, Texas engaged in a post-whistle altercation with Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ linebacker Michael Ayers following a kick return late in the third quarter. Both players were assessed penalties for unnecessary roughness but video replay showed O’Neal striking the opponent twice in the helmet with an open palm, drawing an automatic ejection. Edmonton went on to lose the game by a score of 27-14.
The 25-year-old rookie signed with the Elks this past off-season and dressed for 11 games, making five starts at strong-side linebacker. He recorded 35 defensive tackles and seven special teams tackles.
O’Neal Jr. was previously a member of the San Francisco 49ers, Saskatchewan Roughriders, and Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League.
The Elks (5-9) will visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (8-6) on Friday, Sept. 27 for the second half of their home-and-home. Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. EDT.
