Chad Johnson and Four Other Shocking Arrests of the 2012 NFL Off-Season
Commissioner Roger Goodell has made player discipline his top priority since the day he took office, and he’s certainly gotten a chance to practice his strict methods in recent months.
Since the NFL wrapped up play in February, its players have racked up dozens of arrests for everything from drunk driving to assault. In total, over 25 players face disciplinary action for their off-field antics.
Here are some of the more shocking arrests of this wild off-season:
Mikel "Leshoure" Doesn't Want To Play
The Lions drafted Mikel Leshoure in the second round of the 2011 draft with the expectation that he’d become the team’s primary backfield workhorse. After missing the entire 2011 season with a torn Achilles, Leshoure was arrested twice for marijuana possession this off-season, earning an automatic two-game suspension and the ire of Lions fans. It isn’t often that a player can be a disappointment without ever stepping on the gridiron, but Leshoure is close to making that happen.
Justin Blackmon Needs a Designated Driver
The Jacksonville Jaguars drafted Justin Blackmon with the fifth pick in the 2012 draft, and are counting on him to inject some life into their anemic offense. With that in mind, a second DUI arrest probably isn’t the start the Jaguars wanted for their best (and possibly only) downfield threat.
Blackmon reportedly blew a .25 on a Breathalyzer test, over three times the legal limit. Still, Jacksonville doesn’t seem too worried about Blackmon’s off-season antics—the two sides recently inked a contract worth $18 million.
Dez Bryant Isn't a "Mama's Boy"
When Dez Bryant broke into the NFL, his football potential was considered extraordinary—as was his tendency to get into trouble. The Cowboys receiver was arrested in July for allegedly assaulting his mother during a heated argument.
The incident is just the latest in a series of extracurricular mishaps, and word is that Dez is beginning to test the patience of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. Considering the crazy amount of talent he brings to the table, it would be a shame to see him become another casualty of off-field drama.
Ocho UNemployed-O
Say it ain’t so, Chad! After a forgettable season with the New England Patriots, the sports world’s favorite tweeter had gotten a clean slate and a chance to redeem himself in Miami. Johnson stands accused of headbutting his wife, “Basketball Wives” star Evelyn Lozoda, during an argument about his alleged infidelity.
Despite reports of solid play in camp, the Dolphins wasted no time in cutting the former all-pro wide receiver. Ochocinco has drawn little interest from other teams, and may be in the market for a new career sooner than expected.
Adrian Peterson Breaks Tackles and Shackles
Known for his insane work ethic, Adrian Peterson is not normally the type of player who comes stumbling out of nightclubs. Maybe that’s why the media was so shocked when the Vikings running back was arrested in July for resisting arrest. Details on the situation are still sketchy, but it’s clear that he was involved in some sort of late-night skirmish with Houston police.
Peterson is in the midst of a remarkable recover from an ACL tear, and will look to put both the injury and this brush with the law behind him in 2012.