Indianapolis Colts: Robert Turbin Charged with Marijuana Possession
By Kyle Nishida
Tuesday, Indianapolis Colts’ running back Robert Turbin was charged with one count of marijuana possession in Utah.
Last week, Turbin was hosting a football camp at Utah State University, his alma mater. On the Friday of that week, he was pulled over by a police officer after his car ran through a stop sign. During the process of the pullover, the officer found a marijuana cigarette (joint) in Turbin’s car.
He is scheduled to be arraigned on July 26 on the misdemeanor charge. This type of charge is punishable by up to six months in prison and a $1,000 fine.
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This misdemeanor charge also means Turbin is subject to suspension by the NFL. Regardless if he is suspended or not, Turbin’s status with the Colts is a little murkier.
Turbin is entering his fifth season as an NFL player. After three full seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, he bounced from the Seahawks to the Dallas Cowboys to the Cleveland Browns in 2015.
In his career, Turbin has accumulated 1,127 rushing yards, 50 receptions and three total touchdowns. His numbers suggest he would be a valuable backup running back.
This offseason, the Colts signed Turbin because he could be a serviceable backup running back behind their starter Frank Gore. However, his recent arrest could change their opinion of him because they do not like guys getting in trouble off the field.
Remember, former Colts’ linebacker Jonathan Newsome had multiple off-the-field issues involving marijuana. He was released this offseason as a result.
Obivously, Turbin’s one incident is less severe than Newsome’s multiple run-ins with the law. However, his marijuana charge could make the Colts much more cautious to keep him on the roster.
Now, Turbin could be on the roster bubble which is very unfortunate for him. Prior to this incident, it was very likely Turbin would have easily made the Colts’ 53-man roster.
There will be a lot of competition for the spots behind Gore. In addition to Turbin, the Colts signed veteran Jordan Todman and undrafted rookie Josh Ferguson. They also have Tyler Varga and Trey Williams returning to the team this fall.
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Turbin has more experience than all the other backup running backs. However, his place on the team is no monger a certainty. He will have to perform well in training camp and in preseason if he wants to solidify his place on the Colts’ 53-man roster.