The former NFL cornerback Fred Smoot left the football world more than a decade ago. Now he finds his name in the headlines again though not for any good reason.
He did not enjoy many positive recognitions when starring for the Minnesota Vikings and the Washington Commanders, Smoot’s career was heavily marred by legal issues. Even after so much time, he seems to have failed to change his ways.
Why is ex-NFL CB Fred Smoot arrested?
Fred first encountered legal issues in 2005 while playing for the Vikings, when he was charged with being involved in the “Love Boat” controversy for allegedly renting prostitutes for an adult party on board. Despite eventually entering a guilty plea to minor charges for his part in the occurrence, he was nevertheless sentenced to six months of probation.
Additionally, the former Vikings, who had been arrested numerous times over the years, had been accused of domestic abuse and driving offenses.
This time around, the 44-year-old handed got into trouble once more on Thursday in response to a civil misdemeanor allegation of “failure to comply with support obligation” at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
It is being speculated that Fred failed to pay child support for one or more of his children though exactly which of his partners filed the case is still unknown.
Report: Former #Vikings, Commanders CB Fred Smoot was arrested in Virginia on Thursday, per @TMZ
According to jail records, the ex-Washington Commanders cornerback was taken into custody at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center at 10:58 AM … and as of Friday morning, he… pic.twitter.com/cs0zVhhfAP
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 11, 2023
The ex-cornerback was released on Friday, though any information on the arrest was not made public.
What did Fred Smoot do after NFL retirement?
Smoot commenced his NFL career after the Washington Redskins selected him in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He took part in nine NFL seasons with Minnesota and Washington, compiling 450 tackles, 21 interceptions, and five fumbles caused.
He accepted the duty of acting as a contract employee of the Commanders after being let go by the Vikings. The Commander’s broadcaster made guest appearances on internal shows and in “Command Center.”
Even though the Commanders were silent following the event, it was reported that he will not be present during tonight’s preseason game versus the Browns. Additionally, former tight end Rick Doc Walker might perform his duties.
It continues to be observed if he will also lose his position as a broadcaster after initially losing his position as a player. Smoot’s incident should serve as a reminder for all existing and newcomer players to keep their act together, especially in regard to getting in legal trouble, which can ruin careers.