Terrell Owens believes an apology is not enough for Stephen A. Smith. The Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver is questioning why ESPN has not suspended Smith over comments he made about former Philadelphia Eagles star Lane Johnson and his mental health, Sports Illustrated reported.
Owens made his feelings clear on his “Get TO the Point” podcast. He criticized Smith for the way the longtime ESPN personality discussed Johnson’s decision to suddenly retire from the NFL. Owens called the subject sensitive and questioned why Smith had not faced consequences, Yahoo! said.
Johnson announced his retirement Oct. 6, ending a 14-year career spent entirely with Philadelphia. The two-time Super Bowl champion said his priorities had changed and that focusing on his mental health and spending time with his family were most important.
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The next day on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith questioned the timing of Johnson’s decision. Smith connected the sudden retirement to Philadelphia’s early-season problems. His comments drew criticism, including from fellow ESPN personality Kimberley A. Martin.
Smith later acknowledged that he handled the subject poorly. He opened “First Take” on Oct. 8 with an apology, saying his intention did not matter as much as how his comments were received. He said he was wrong to Johnson and the Eagles and acknowledged that he had made light of a serious mental health issue.
But that apology has not satisfied Owens. The former Eagles, Cowboys and 49ers receiver said Smith’s large platform should come with responsibility, especially when discussing mental health.
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