The player who punched Geno Smith on Tuesday could be facing criminal charges and possible NFL discipline for breaking Smith's jaw.
The league confirmed on Wednesday that it will be looking into the fight that ended with Smith taking a punch from former teammate IK Enemkpali. Enemkpali could potentially be punished for a possible violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy.
Under the policy, a player can be hit with a possible suspension for "violent or threatening behavior toward another employee or a third party in any workplace setting."
On the other hand, NFL discipline could be the least of Enemkpali's worries because there's also a possibility that he could end up facing criminal charges. However, the only way that's going to happen is if Smith decides to pursue them, Jets coach Todd Bowles said on Tuesday.
"I think that's up to Geno and those guys in the Florham Park [Police Department]," Bowles said. "That has nothing to do with us."
Smith, who will miss the next 6-10 weeks with a broken jaw, hasn't indicated whether or not he plans to press charges for the punch, which was allegedly thrown over a $600 debt.
According to multiple reports, Smith was scheduled to attend a football camp in Texas that Enemkpali had put together for local youths. Enemkpali spent $600 on Smith's flight, but Smith didn't take the flight because he skipped the camp to a attend a friend's funeral in Miami.
Smith had promised to reimburse Enemkpali, but had yet to give him the money at the time of the punch.
Enemkpali apologized for the situation after the Jets released him on Tuesday.
"I apologize to the Jets organization, coaches, teammates and fans," he said in the statement. "Geno and I let our frustration get the best of us, but I should have just walked away from the situation. I deeply regret and apologize for my actions. It was never my intention to harm anyone. I appreciate the opportunity I had with the Jets."
