Vikings co-defensive coordinator Andre Patterson said Tuesday's release of cornerback and 2020 first-round draft pick Jeff Gladney will have zero impact on the defense.
"Because he hasn't been here," Patterson said. "It's sad to say, but the NFL is 'out of sight, out of mind.' "
Gladney was indicted Tuesday on a felony assault charge of family violence in a case involving his girlfriend. About four hours later, the Vikings released him. Gladney has not been present for any team activities since his arrest in April.
"The train keeps moving," Patterson shrugged. "It never stops for anybody. That's just the way this league is. He hasn't been here, he hasn't been practicing, so he hasn't been around our group."
Patterson said the only impact would be any personal relationships teammates had with Gladney.
"But when it comes to the football part of it, he hasn't been here, so it really hasn't been an adjustment factor there," Patterson said.
Gladney, drafted with the 31st pick out of Texas Christian last year, played in all 16 games last year, starting 15.
Asked if it's hard to see a young player get released like that, Patterson said, "No, because it's just the way this league is."