IK Enemkpali to Bills: Latest Contract Details, Comments, Reaction

The Buffalo Bills reportedly claimed IK Enemkpali off waivers one day after the New York Jets released him for punching quarterback Geno Smith, who suffered a broken jaw and is expected to miss at least six weeks of action.

Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network first reported the news. It was confirmed by Mike Garafolo of Fox Sports. Rapoport also noted the linebacker has "given the organization his side of the story" and is already making his way to Buffalo.

Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com provided details of Tuesday's incident, including head coach Todd Bowles' description of a "sucker punch." Adam Schefter of ESPN added that the entire ordeal allegedly started over a $600 plane ticket Enemkpali bought Smith and sought reimbursement for.

Enemkpali issued a statement afterward, per Dennis Waszak Jr. of the Associated Press.

"I apologize to the Jets organization, coaches, teammates and fans," the statement read. "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."    

Now he'll head to the Bills with a chance to earn a spot on one of the league's best defenses. New head coach Rex Ryan coached the 24-year-old defender in New York last season. Ryan described the vision he has for Enemkpali, per Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com:

Enemkpali appeared in just six games as a rookie, registering three combined tackles. He should still have a good chance to make the final roster, with Buffalo seeking more depth at outside linebacker behind Nigel Bradham and Manny Lawson.

That said, it's a bit surprising he's being given a second chance so quickly. Whatever he told the Bills must have convinced them the incident isn't as bad as originally portrayed. Buffalo plays the Jets during Week 10 in the first of two meetings.