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On day Henry Ruggs goes to prison, Raiders announce questionable 'official' drink partnership
Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

On day Henry Ruggs goes to prison, Raiders announce questionable 'official' drink partnership

The Raiders made an extremely tone-deaf move on Wednesday. 

The team announced a partnership with Charles Woodson's Woodson Bourbon Whiskey on the same day former Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III was sentenced to 3-10 years in prison for his DUI wreck in November 2021 that killed Las Vegas resident Tina Tintor in her dog.

They could have picked any other day of the year to reveal the partnership, but they chose to do so when it's been known since May 10 that Ruggs would be sentenced Aug. 9.

Raiders public relations hailed the partnership as "historic" in that it marks "the first time that a pro football player's company has been the official spirit sponsor of an NFL franchise." Good for them, we guess.

The news release notes that "The agreement grants Woodson Bourbon Whiskey prominent visibility within Allegiant Stadium, including a branded stadium bar."

On Nov. 2, 2021, Ruggs had a blood-alcohol level of 0.16, more than twice the legal limit, and was driving 156 miles per hour prior to striking Tintor's vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

It was a completely avoidable tragedy if Riggs had done the right thing and not gotten behind the wheel of a motor vehicle when highly intoxicated.

Instead, his actions led to the death of a young woman. And on the day he faced justice for what he did, the Raiders decided it was the right time to promote their partnership with Woodson Bourbon Whiskey. It's a horrible look and another avoidable mistake.

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