By Spike Eskin

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Joe Flacco proved on Monday that athletes do not need Twitter to say stupid things.

When asked about the notion of playing the Super Bowl in New Jersey’s Metlife Stadium next season, Flacco said, “I think it’s retarded,” at a press conference in New Orleans. “I probably shouldn’t say that. I think it’s stupid. If you want a Super Bowl, put a retractable dome on your stadium. Then you can get one. Other than I don’t really like the idea. I don’t think people would react very well to it, or be glad to play anybody in that kind of weather.”

The idea of having the Super Bowl outdoors is certainly a debatable topic, but using the word “retarded” as a substitute for “stupid” is not.

Flacco apologized Tuesday for the remark.

“Obviously, it was a bad choice of words,” Flacco said via Delaware Online. “I wish I hadn’t said it. I have a great relationship with Special Olympics back in Baltimore and have had one for many years. I didn’t mean to offend anybody, but I definitely apologize for it.”