Jets release Osemele day after he has non-approved surgery

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Jets have released guard Kelechi Osemele a day after he had shoulder surgery without the team’s approval.

The move Saturday is the latest chapter in what has become a contentious standoff between Osemele and the team.

Osemele had surgery Friday in Boston to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder. The Jets were made aware of Osemele’s plan to have surgery, but because he was not with the team and the surgery wasn’t approved, it was considered an “unexcused absence.”

Osemele was listed on the team’s injury report Friday as doubtful to play at Jacksonville and then downgraded Saturday to out. The Jets later announced they cut ties with him.

Osemele’s agent, Andrew Kessler, says in a statement the Jets owe him the balance of his contract. Osemele also will be looking to recoup all money lost through fines.