The curious case of Ole Miss defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche defenestrating himself from an Atlanta hotel just keeps getting curiouser and curiouser.
The junior who has yet to declare for the NFL Draft put out a statement via the Ole Miss sports information office today denying that he was using synthetic marijuana when he crashed through a double-paned window and fell 15 feet to the ground, with an unfortunate bush breaking the 300-pounder’s fall.
He didn’t deny using marijuana, which he was charged with possession of by Atlanta police, but did take a swipe at a report that the synthetic drug made him paranoid and think someone was chasing him when he decided on a means of egress other than the door.
“I want to apologize to Rebel Nation, my teammates and my coaches for my actions last weekend,” the statement read. “I made a mistake and put myself in an environment that does not reflect who I am as a person. Contrary to a report by FOX Sports, I did not use synthetic drugs. I realize the dangers of drugs and alcohol and regret the lapse in judgment. This does not reflect the core values that my mother and father instilled in our family. I am a very spiritual person, and drugs have no place in my belief system.
“As I move forward, I have learned a valuable lesson about the ramifications of a bad decision. I have worked very hard to have this platform, and I want to use it in the right way and be a role model for young players. I am sorry for putting coach [Hugh] Freeze in this position and will accept whatever consequences are necessary, but my hope is to finish this year’s journey with my brothers.”
He’s set to play in the upcoming Sugar Bowl, and if he leaves school early, he’s expected to be a high first-round pick, at least unless the off-field concerns cause his stock to crash. Of course, no one will be able to question his pane tolerance.