A number of incoming NFL rookies are entering the league this year amidst various past and present legal issues, continuing a pattern of legal entanglements among some players.
While NFL rookies typically try to avoid trouble before securing their contracts, this year’s group includes several individuals already facing significant challenges. For instance, Malik Nabers, a former LSU wide receiver who is joining the New York Giants, was arrested in New Orleans for carrying an illegal weapon in February 2023, although his misdemeanor charge was later dismissed.
Ainias Smith, set to play for the Philadelphia Eagles, encountered legal troubles in 2022 with a DWI arrest after being stopped for speeding, where police also discovered marijuana and a loaded gun in his car. His charges were subsequently dropped.
T’Vondre Sweat, a standout defensive tackle from Texas and last season’s Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, was arrested for DWI just weeks before the 2024 NFL draft, which did not significantly impact his draft position as the Tennessee Titans selected him early in the second round.
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Max Melton, a former Rutgers defensive back now with the Arizona Cardinals, faced charges in 2022 related to a drive-by paintball shooting, including aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a weapon.
Payton Wilson, a newcomer to the Pittsburgh Steelers, had multiple charges dating back to 2019 that involved alcohol and fleeing from police.
Nathaniel Watson, who will start his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns, was arrested twice; once in 2023 for suspected DUI and previously in 2018 related to a drag race that resulted in injuries and property damage.
Jermaine Burton, a former Alabama wide receiver now with the Cleveland Browns, was involved in an incident where he was caught on video assaulting a female fan, although he claimed it was out of fear and faced no penalties.
McKinnley Jackson, from Texas A&M, faced two drug-related charges in 2021, including a second-degree felony for possession of a controlled substance. He will be playing with the Bengals.
As rookies are generally the most cost-effective players, a team can see substantial improvement in a single season if these players manage to contribute significantly on the field.
Despite their high-profile draft status, it’s often the lesser-known rookies who surprise fans and teams alike with their performances, leading to regrets among teams that passed on them.
