GM Scot McCloughan fired by Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins have fired general manager Scot McCloughan, ending a tense period during which McCloughan did not attend the NFL Combine and has apparently not been involved in free-agent decisions.

Here is a statement from Redskins Team President Bruce Allen:

“The Washington Redskins have released Scot McCloughan from the organization effective immediately. We wish him success in his future endeavors. The team will have no further comment on his departure. The organization remains confident in our personnel department as we execute our free agency plans as well as prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft.”

McCloughan was two years into a four-year contract. His work helped the Redskins win the NFC East title in 2015, one year after having gone 4-12.

McCloughan, though, has had past problems with alcohol that led to his losing jobs with the Seattle Seahawks ad San Francisco 49ers. A source told The Washington Post alcohol was again a factor in Washington:

“He’s had multiple relapses due to alcohol,” said the official, who spoke on a condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to comment on personnel matters. “He showed up in the locker room drunk on multiple occasions. . . . This has been a disaster for 18 months.”

“He didn’t make the best of his third chance in the NFL,” the official said, alluding to the two previous jobs McCloughan has lost for alcohol abuse.

This has been a turbulent time for the Redskins. Top wide receivers DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon both left the team via free agency on Thursday. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has reportedly requested a trade.