It had been 38 days since an NFL player was arrested, so maybe some of you forgot the routine.
Step one, player gets arrested.
Step two, mug shot emerges.
Step three, team issues meaningless, perfunctory statement acknowledging the arrest.
So here’s the Falcons’ statement regarding the arrest of running back Michael Turner: “We are aware of the situation involving Michael and are in the process of gathering more information. Because this is now a legal matter, the club will have no further comment at this time.”
The incident falls within the confines of the league’s substance-abuse policy. For a first offense, Turner will likely be fined two games if/when he is convicted or pleads guilty. Barring aggravating circumstances, there will be no suspension.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Turner was driving 97 miles per hour in a 65-mph zone. Given his alleged intoxication, that could possibly be regarded as an aggravating circumstance.