As the news headlines for this draft program and small camps disappear from the headlines, coaches, test staffs and players all often go to different places this time of year to get final R&R before the last small camps and training camp retreat preparations begin in a few weeks. The NFL has become a year-round career in the last 20-25 years, and most team players usually put in 80 weeks or more a year. This time is very much needed by many to recharge before the start of the season. That doesn't mean team officials will sleep soundly next month, as this season has turned into a "Fear" Season in the league because many players find the problem, or the problem finding them, depending on the opinion you believe, when there is nothing organized to stay focused. One has to look at the headlines in recent weeks to understand why certain teams are rushing to come up with emergency plans in the event of illegal players simply not being available at any time. 1. Ricky Manning, Jr. and Maurice Drew Although the incident mentioned here is alleged to have taken place in April, news reached the mirrors a few weeks ago, and the results could be troubling for two NFL teams. According to police reports, Manning, Jr., Drew and another UCLA-affiliated player brutally assaulted a UCLA student at a Denny's restaurant in Westwood this morning, resulting in serious injuries and serious charges. Manning, Jr. he recently signed a lucrative contract with the Bears, with Drew being selected by the Jaguars in the second round. 2. Jake Plummer Plummer was reportedly involved in a road rage incident in which he cut off another driver and kicked another vehicle. Before leaving the scene, Plummer allegedly parked his car in another driver's car. There are two sides to the story, but one big head of the Broncos and their first QB. 3. Cory Rodgers The Packers were recently elected in the fourth round involved in what is believed to be an altercation with gang members at a Texas bar after refusing to buy drinks and signing sponsors autographs at the bar. According to police reports, Rodgers fled the scene of the altercation, but police reports indicate that he allegedly fired a shotgun into the air while exiting the noise. Rodgers would be given the opportunity to contribute to the Packers' special teams in a big way, and he can still do that, but he will have to clear up the mess before he can continue his football career. 4. Ruben Droughs Three days after his release from the DUI case, Droughns was charged with domestic violence in connection with the May 12 incident in which he allegedly threw his wife through the back door of their home after telling her he wanted a divorce. Although the charges are erroneous, Droughns also had legal problems, and the RB presented by the Brown may be disrupted on his way to training camp. 5. Santonio Holmes Holmes was arrested for disorderly conduct at a hotel in the Miami area after a high-profile confrontation with local police. The details of the incident are unclear, but this is not the way a top organization like the Steelers wants to introduce its top rookie throughout the NFL. A few things need to be emphasized. First of all, none of these players have ever been convicted of anything, and everyone should consider themselves innocent until proven otherwise. Second, these are just a few examples of the legal issues that players face. However, these incidents really affect the way teams work, as no one can predict that a player will not be available for work due to legal issues as he cannot predict injuries. Not to mention, the NFL may be involved in any of these incidents and issue its disciplinary action and / or suspension if conditions permit it under the current CBA. No matter what happens, club officials across the league can try to relax these days, but everyone will breathe a sigh of relief when players report the season and it is too late for distractions and problems.
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