Los Angeles Rams running back Tre Mason was reportedly arrested in Hollywood, Fla. Saturday night. The Hollywood police department pulled over Mason for speeding after a short pursuit. He was recorded driving 75 mph in a 35 mph zone and reportedly refused to provide his license and name or get out of his vehicle when told by officers.
Police officers used a taser to remove the 2014 third round NFL Draft pick from the vehicle. The 22-year-old is being charged with resisting arrest, marijuana possession, reckless driving and failure to register a motor vehicle. He was taken to a local hospital after words.
Broward County court records indicate that Mason had less than 20 grams (12 grams) on him, which would result in a misdemeanor possession charge. This incident will likely result in a suspension from the NFL due to the multiple infractions that have occurred, which would be more than a bump in the road for Mason's career.
The current NFL drug policy states that it will take more than one violation for any player to see advanced stages of discipline. A player will enter Stage One of the NFL's drug intervention program for up to 90 days.
If any player tests positive while they are in this phase of the process, they will be subject to an immediate three-week fine and will be moved up to Stage Two, in addition to facing more advanced disciplinary tactics. At the very most, Mason could see a two-game suspension with the other charges considered in the arrest.
The Rams will be in an interesting position, as the other primary backup on the roster, Benny Cunningham, will be a restricted free agent. Mason, however, is under contract until 2018, and since he is still in his rookie contract, he may not be released. Mason will only have a cap hit of $800,521 in 2016 and $911,632 in 2017. He was deactivated during the 2015 NFL season for the Rams Nov. 22 contest against the Baltimore Ravens after he failed to get on the team bus before it left for the airport.
Rams coach Jeff Fisher has stated that this is an important offseason for Mason, who will look to carve out a bigger role in this offense after his role was significantly stunted with the arrival of Todd Gurley. The Rams using their 2015 first round pick on Gurley is telling, considering that the Rams drafted Mason one year prior in the third round.
