Scott Cunningham/Getty ImagesRiley Cooper is taking a break from the gridiron after the NFL player's use of a racial slur became public.
The Philadelphia Eagles released a statement on Friday regarding the wide receiver's leave of absence from training camp.
"As we have said, Riley Cooper will be seeking counseling and we have excused him from all team activities," the statement read. "This is all new territory, and we are going to evaluate this timetable every step of the way. He will meet with professionals provided by the Eagles during this period of time to better help him understand how his words have hurt so many, including his teammates."
Earlier this week, a video hit the Internet in which Cooper could be heard using the N-word at a Kenny Chesney concert back in June. The 25-year-old athlete can be heard shouting, "I will jump that fence and fight every n---er in here."
Cooper admitted to reporters on Wednesday that his remark was directed at a black security guard and said he was "ashamed and disgusted" with himself.
On Friday, Cooper released a follow-up statement.
"The last few days have been incredibly difficult for me. My actions were inexcusable. The more I think about what I did, the more disgusted I get. I keep trying to figure out how I could have said something so repulsive, and what I can do to make things better.
"Right now, I think it's important for me to take some time to reflect on this situation. The organization and my teammates have been extremely supportive, but I also realize that there are people who will have a tough time forgiving me for what I've done. The best thing for me, and for the team, is to step away for a period of time.
"During this time I'm going to be speaking with a variety of professionals to help me better understand how I could have done something that was so offensive, and how I can start the healing process for everyone. As long as it takes, and whatever I have to do, I'm going to try to make this right."
At a press conference on Thursday, head coach Chip Kelly said Cooper's spot on the active roster list is not in jeopardy.