As reported by the Daily Mail, the 28-year-old was booked into Collin County jail on charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful carrying of a weapon, with a bond set at $500.

This arrest comes at a particularly sensitive time for Turpin, who just four months ago signed a lucrative $18 million, three-year contract with the Cowboys during the offseason. The deal, highlighted on the team’s website, could position him as the highest-paid special teams player in NFL history. The timing of this legal trouble casts a shadow over his recent achievements and raises concerns about potential repercussions from the team and the league.

Turpin’s Troubled Past Resurfaces

Turpin’s current legal issues are not his first encounter with controversy outside the football field. Back in 2018, while at Texas Christian University (TCU), he was removed from the football team following an arrest for assault with bodily injury to a family member. This incident led to a guilty plea, resulting in probation and a mandated abuse intervention program, as reported by The Dallas Morning News.

Critics of Turpin point to this pattern of off-field behavior as a red flag, questioning whether he can maintain the discipline required of a professional athlete under a high-profile contract. They argue that such incidents could distract from team morale and performance, especially for a player who has been given a significant financial commitment by the Cowboys. Some fans and analysts express concern that repeated legal troubles might jeopardize his standing in the NFL.

On the other hand, supporters of Turpin emphasize his journey of redemption and resilience. They highlight his ability to overcome past mistakes, noting that after the TCU incident, he worked his way back into professional football through determination and skill. His defenders urge patience, suggesting that this latest arrest may not define his career or character if he takes responsibility and addresses the situation appropriately.

Stellar Career Highlights Under Threat

Turpin’s on-field performance has been nothing short of impressive, making this arrest even more jarring for fans. After going undrafted, he took a non-traditional path to the NFL, including a stint in Poland and a standout season with the New Jersey Generals in the USFL, where he earned the league’s MVP title. His talent eventually caught the eye of the Cowboys, leading to his signing in 2022.

His impact with the Cowboys has been significant, particularly as a kick returner. Last season, Turpin returned both a kickoff and a punt for touchdowns, earning his first All-Pro nod, and has progressively become more involved in the team’s offensive plays as a receiver. In 2023, he recorded three touchdown passes and a rushing score, followed by a career-high 420 receiving yards with two touchdowns in the most recent season.

However, this arrest could potentially disrupt his upward trajectory. Critics within the sports community worry that legal consequences or team disciplinary actions might sideline him, affecting not only his personal career but also the Cowboys’ special teams dynamics. Supporters, though, hope the team will stand by him, citing his proven value and potential for growth if given the chance to rectify this misstep.

Contract Implications Raise Questions

The timing of Turpin’s arrest, just months after signing an $18 million contract, has sparked intense debate about the financial and professional risks for the Cowboys. This deal was set to solidify his status as a restricted free agent and potentially the highest-paid special teams player in NFL history. Now, the arrest introduces uncertainty about whether the team will reconsider their investment or impose penalties.

Critics of the Cowboys’ management argue that signing a player with a known history of off-field issues to such a large contract was a gamble that may not pay off. They suggest that the organization should have implemented stricter behavioral clauses or oversight to protect their interests. Some fans express frustration, feeling that the team’s resources could be at risk due to Turpin’s actions.

On the flip side, those in Turpin’s corner argue that the Cowboys knew his history when they signed him and believed in his ability to mature. They contend that one arrest does not necessarily negate his contributions or potential, and the team should focus on supporting him through this incident rather than punishing him prematurely. The lack of an official statement from the Cowboys, as noted by the Daily Mail’s outreach for comment, leaves room for speculation on their stance.