Marshall stands by race-related comments, says not about judge

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets wide receiver Brandon Marshall didn't back down Thursday from the race-related comments he made earlier in the week on Showtime's "Inside the NFL," but he made one clarification.

Marshall said he wasn't referring to the federal judge in the Tom Brady case when he suggested during the show the NFL gives preferential treatment to white players when meting out discipline.

"It had nothing to do with the judge," Marshall said, referring to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman, who nullified Brady's four-game suspension. "I was just saying what I thought was the opinion of a bunch of players. It had nothing to do with the case. It was just our approach.

"The only thing I will say about what whole deal is, I think we all know ... whenever you talk about race, whenever you talk about religion and politics, it's uncomfortable and it can be tough at times."

Marshall declined to take additional questions regarding the comments he made as a studio analyst on the weekly show. He made those remarks in the context of a discussion about Brady and Deflategate.

He also wouldn't say whether he has the same opinion of the unnamed players whose sentiments he shared on the show, where he said, "There are a lot of players out there that believe white players -- specifically, at the quarterback position -- are treated differently."

Marshall acknowledged he's trying to maintain a delicate balance, providing provocative content for viewers while not upsetting his teammates. On Wednesday, coach Todd Bowles said he had no problem with Marshall's expressing his opinions, but he cautioned the outspoken receiver to "be smarter" when discussing hot-button issues in a public forum.

"As an active player, it is tough because you can't talk about your own team," Marshall said. "At the same time, it's tough talking about other teams, you know what I mean? That's why I sit in the seat I sit in -- the players' perspective.

"But when I retire ... whew! A lot of headlines."

Marshall, 31, entering his 10th season, has fit in nicely with the Jets, according to coaches. His reputation for being a difficult player to coach hasn't manifested itself, offensive coordinator Chan Gailey said.

"He didn't walk in here and say, 'This is how I'm going to do it,'" Gailey said. "He was willing to listen to what we're trying to do, offensively, and talking about some new ways to do things. That's appreciated from a guy in my position because I've had guys that aren't that way. That has been a great, pleasant surprise."