No. 58 finally took the field for the Arizona Cardinals this preseason — a jersey that has been away from the game for quite some time now. The only problem is, it wasn’t defensive star Daryl Washington wearing it. Instead, it was unsigned rookie Edwin Jackson donning the number.

Washington has yet to be seen around Cardinals training camp. Rumor is, he’s even cut several ties from team members and coaches. It’s now been well over 60 days since the troubled linebacker applied for reinstatement, and yet, still no word from the NFL, the Cardinals or Washington regarding his murky chance of playing in the league again.

Sure, you can make the argument that another player had to take the jersey number simply because, even in preseason, two players cannot share the same number. It could very easily have been a math problem. Or it could be that the once-feared linebacker and staple of the Cardinals’ stout defense hasn’t played an NFL game since December of 2013. Twenty months is hard to return to any career, especially one that is highly-demanding of physical and mental conditioning.

Like Ray Rice and Greg Hardy, Washington is awaiting forgiveness and another chance. Hardy seemed to have found his as a Dallas Cowboy. Well, at least he found his way back onto the field; winning the graces of the fans is far from completion.

Washington was suspended four games in 2013 for substance abuse and then failed to learn his lesson the following season, as he was suspended the entire year for a second violation.

But it’s not just the substance abuse that is keeping him back. Those problems can be treated and avoided. No, it’s the fact that the 6-foot-2, 230-pound NFL linebacker allegedly shoved the mother of his daughter, breaking her collarbone. Add that despicable act to the lack of conditioning and you get a recipe for a failed comeback and career.

After years of ignorance and accusations, the NFL is finally making a stand against domestic violence. Sure, some people might forgive them; even the victims might find peace with the situation, but that doesn’t change the fact that a strict punishment should be carried out. It’s well past due for a no-excuse, zero-tolerance policy.

It’s unfortunate for the fans and even Washington that he has to be made an example of, but you can’t say he didn’t deserve it. He put himself into the situation. These players are seen as heroes and role models to thousands of kids and adults alike, and it’s time they begin to act the part, whether it’s from the field or the bleachers.