Cowboys receiver/returner KaVontae Turpin was arrested and booked into Collin County Jail on Sunday, per court records.
Turpin faces a pair of misdemeanor charges: possession of marijuana (totaling less than two ounces) and unlawful carrying of a weapon, as detailed by Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News. Neither the Cowboys nor the NFL have issued a statement at this time.
A 2018 arrest on a assault charges led to Turpin being dismissed from TCU midway through his senior season. That brought an end to a productive college career, during which he flashed potential as a receiver but especially in the return game. After going undrafted, the 5-9, 153-pounder saw time in numerous football leagues during a span which included earning USFL MVP honors. Turpin’s showing there earned him an opportunity with the Cowboys.
The 2022 campaign saw Turpin receive a Pro Bowl selection for his strong production as a kick and punt returner. The 28-year-old was a standout in that regard once again last season, totaling over 1,600 All-Purpose yards and leading the NFL in kick return average (33.5). Those figures led to a first-team All-Pro nod and came about as Turpin also took on an increased offensive role (31-420-2 receiving statline).
Team and player agreed on a three-year deal in March, and the pact’s base value of $13.5MM marks a notable raise from Turpin’s initial contract. Incentives are present which could yield another $4.5MM in compensation if his offensive role and production continue to increase. Dallas has a new WR2 in the form of George Pickens, and expectations will be high for both he and CeeDee Lamb. Turpin could nevertheless be in position for another strong season in 2025 presuming this arrest does not lead to any missed time.