Lions coach Dan Campbell comments on former player Terrion Arnold's release amid criminal charges
Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the team's decision to cut defensive back Terrion Arnold, who faces multiple kidnapping and armed robbery charges, and noted the move was made in the club's best interest.
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke about the release of defensive back Terrion Arnold for the first time during a Wednesday training-camp session. Campbell said he had addressed the team the night before, acknowledging the difficulty of parting with a player the organization had drafted and signed to a four-year, $14.3 million contract in 2024. He described the situation as unfortunate but affirmed that the decision was made in the team's best interest.
Arnold, a first-round pick who appeared in only eight games last season because of injuries, was arrested in June and charged with four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery related to a February incident in Largo, Florida. Prosecutors allege he acted as the “general manager” of an armed group that beat and robbed three individuals, though his attorneys claim there is no evidence linking him to the crimes.
After being released, Arnold cleared waivers in July and became a free agent. A Florida judge later ruled he would not be required to wear an ankle monitor while on bond, a decision that could facilitate a potential NFL signing. His agent reported that four teams expressed interest shortly after his release. The NFL said it is closely monitoring the case under its personal-conduct policy, and the league could place Arnold on the commissioner’s exempt list pending further review. His next court appearances are scheduled for August 6 and August 13.