Pros and Cons (40 page)

Bengals running back Corey Dillon, the AFC’s 1997 Rookie of the Year. Before joining the NFL, Dillon had eleven criminal cases brought against him in his home state of Washington. After his rookie season, he was again arrested in Washington. (Photo courtesy of the Cincinnati Bengals)

Baltimore Ravens running back Bam Morris after his off-season arrest for illegal possession of drugs. (Rockwall County Sheriff’s Department photo)

The Ravens’ leading rusher, Morris was released by the team after he was sentenced to jail in Texas for violating his probation. (Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens)

Ravens owner Art Modell. After Bam Morris was jailed in Texas for failing to keep appointments with his probation officer, Modell submitted an affidavit to the prosecutor stating: “Given the complex nature of Mr. Morris’s position on the club, it was vital that Mr. Morris not miss any time from work….” (Photo courtesy of the Baltimore Ravens)

University of Nebraska standout defensive lineman Christian Peter. He was drafted by the New England patriots in 1996 and then promptly released when owner Bob Kraft learned of his extensive run-ins with the law in Nebraska. (Lincoln, Nebrashka, police Department photo)

Patriots owner Bob Kraft, who has steered away from employing players with criminal histories. (Photo courtesy of the New England Patriots)

Former Rams defensive end James Harris was indicted by federal authorities in 1997 and accused of providing money to drug dealers in the East St. Louis area. He was later acquitted by a federal judge. (Photos courtesy of the St. Louis Rams)

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Lamar Thomas, who played under Dolphins head coach Jimmy Johnson at the University of Miami (Photo courtesy of the Miami Dolphins)

Lamar Thomas was arrested and convicted for assaulting his pregnant girlfriend. (Metro Dade, Florida, Police Department photo)

A copy of the criminal complaint filed by the State of Florida against Lamar Thomas. (Broward Country, Florida, court)

Dolphins wide receiver Charles Jordan, a former member of the Bloods who was held on murder charges that were later dropped before joining the NFL. (Photos courtesy of the Miami Dolphins)

Troubled running back Lawrence Phillips, after his arrest in Lincoln, Nebraska, for assaulting his ex-girlfriend. (Lincoln, Nebraska, Police Department photo)

Minnesota Vikings assistant coach Carl Hargrave was arrested on charges of drunk driving, obstructing the legal process, disorderly conduct, and refusing to take a breathalyzer test. He later pleaded guilty to refusing to submit to chemical testing. (Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Police Department photo)