What’s next for Cowboys star punt returner KaVontae Turpin after arrest?
Cowboys star punt returner KaVontae Turpin was arrested for marijuana possession and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Here are the consequences he could face.
While we should be talking about preparation for the Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 NFL season, instead the franchise is facing more drama. With training camp just two weeks away, their star punt returner KaVontae Turpin was arrested late Saturday night on misdemeanor drug and weapon charges. He’s been released on bail, but now the question is, what comes next?
The consequences of Turpin’s actions
KaVontae Turpin was driving nearly 100 miles an hour in a 70 mph zone in Allen, Texas when he was pulled over. When the police stopped him, they noticed a nine-millimeter pistol in “plain view” in the back seat of his car and then found marijuana in the center console.
He was arrested on charges of two misdemeanors - marijuana possession (under two ounces) and unlawful carrying of a weapon. He was released on $1,500 bail from Collin County Jail on Sunday morning.
Dallas Cowboy & NFL players have ONE JOB ahead of training camp.
— DLLS Cowboys (@DLLS_Cowboys) July 7, 2025
KaVontae Turpin did not do that ONE JOB.@timeforjeffrey | #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/vQM3bEDoyR
The incident has raised serious concerns due to Turpin’s prior history, including a 2018 domestic violence case which led to his dismissal from TCU.
While some have compared the situation to that of Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams, who was briefly detained but not arrested or charged during a traffic stop involving a firearm, there are some key differences in their cases. Unlike Williams, Turpin was formally charged and has a criminal record, which could influence both the legal outcome and any discipline from the NFL.
As for legal consequences, for the marijuana charge, Turpin could face up to $2,000 in fines, 180 days in jail, or possible probation with mandatory drug testing, community service and counseling. The consequences of unlawful carrying of a weapon are more severe, and Turpin could face up to a year in prison.
But even if nothing comes of this legally, the NFL could still enact some sort of punishment for Turpin. Although the league has eased its stance on marijuana use, the combination of charges, arrest, and personal history puts Turpin at greater risk of suspension under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. A short suspension of 1-4 games wouldn’t be surprising.
Turpin is coming off his best career season, leading the league in kickoff return yards (994) and yards per return (33.5) with one kickoff return for a touchdown and one punt return for a touchdown. As a receiver, he had a career-high 31 receptions for 420 yards.
Turpin signed a three-year, $28 million contract with Dallas earlier this year. The Cowboys, who had expected Turpin to play a larger role this season, now face difficult questions about accountability and leadership. This situation could serve as a critical turning point for both Turpin’s career and the culture within the Cowboys organization, especially as they aim to maintain focus and pursue championship aspirations.
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