Former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman David Irving is ramping up his criticism of head coach Jason Garrett. In a recent interview with CBS Sports Radio, Irving took some shots at the head coach calling out his relationship with black players on the team.
Irving called out Garrett for being “awkward” around certain players while also saying that he simply doesn’t believe the head coach is comfortable around people of color.
But while he made the comments, Irving was clear that he does not believe Garrett is racist.
“Jason Garrett and I have never really gotten along,” Irving said, as transcribed by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. “To be honest with you, not many people get along with this man. I wish I could put a finger on [why]. I really do. I don’t think it’s just one reason. It’s not just one person that can’t get along with him. It’s a lot of people.
“If I can say anything, I feel like he needs to be more comfortable with people of color, to be honest with you. This is a league where there’s a lot of people of color around, and you’re going to have to deal with us. If you don’t know how to talk to us or relate to us, I don’t know. It’s a tough position. … I think it’s a little uncomfortable for him. Not to say the man’s racist. He’s definitely not racist. Do not get me wrong. It’s just maybe he’s socially awkward.”
The comments come following Irving announcing his retirement from the NFL at just 25 years old. Irving retired from the league while smoking a blunt on camera during an Instagram Live session. He also noted that Garrett would insult him for smoking weed while also being told the team didn’t need him.
Irving was reportedly facing another NFL suspension after previously serving multiple suspensions for violating the National Football League drug policy.