It wasn’t the best of games for Michael Turner, as the Atlanta Falcons beat the Denver Broncos 27-21; it hasn’t been the best of starts for the running back in 2012. What happened after the game was even worse, with Turner being arrested and charged with driving under the influence in Gwinnett County, Georgia.
He was booked into the Gwinnett County jail shortly after 5 a.m., just a few hours after the Falcons completed their second win of the season on Monday Night Football. He was released a few hours later, posting bond money of just over $2000. He was also charged with speeding.
What does this mean for the rest of his season? Not too much. Roger Goodell usually waits for the legal process to run its course before delivering the hammers of justice, while Turner will probably be facing some kind of disciplinary action from the Atlanta Falcons orginization.
We’re aware of the situation with Michael, but it’s really not appropriate to comment on it. We’ll keep the communication internal with myself and Michael, and we’ll deal with it as it progresses. (Head coach Mike Smith)
Turner, 30, is earning $5 million in base salary in the fifth season of a six-year, $34 million contract he signed with the Falcons as a free agent in the 2008 offseason. He has so far rushed for a total of 74 yards on 28 carries through the first two games, struggling to produce like he has in previous seasons for the Falcons, averaging 1320 yards a season since coming over from San Diego in 2008, making two Pro Bowls.