Kavontae Turpin, the Cowboys’ All-Pro return specialist, was arrested near Dallas on charges of misdemeanor marijuana possession and illegal weapon carrying, officials reported. The 28-year-old was taken into custody on Saturday in Allen, Texas, but has since been released from jail. There is no available information about his legal representation, and the Cowboys organization has chosen not to comment on the matter.
Turpin, who joined the Cowboys after being signed from the USFL in 2022, recently agreed to a three-year contract worth $18 million. His college career at TCU ended in 2018 after he was dismissed from the team following revelations of a second domestic violence incident, involving the same woman from a previous case in New Mexico and a subsequent issue in Fort Worth, Texas.
Before making it to the NFL, Turpin played in various smaller soccer leagues and in the USFL. He earned his spot on the Cowboys by scoring touchdowns on punt and kickoff returns during the 2022 preseason. Known as one of the NFL’s top return specialists in his first two years, Turpin didn’t record any return touchdowns until his standout All-Pro season in 2024 when he scored on both a punt and kickoff return.
Under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, Turpin’s role as a receiver has expanded, becoming a more frequent target due to his speed and agility. Last season, he recorded career highs with 31 receptions for 420 yards and two touchdowns, adding three receiving touchdowns and one rushing touchdown in 2023.
Report by Associated Press.
Fan Take: This news is significant for NFL fans as it highlights the off-field challenges that even star players face, which can impact team dynamics and public perception. Turpin’s legal issues could affect his career trajectory and serve as a reminder of the importance of personal conduct in professional sports.
