As the NFL season officially starts today, it's not like we really we wanted to hear about one of our top players getting arrested. Cornerback Leigh Bodden drove his sport utility vehicle in reverse on a one-way street near Cleveland Hopkins Airport Wednesday, and became verbally abusive when police approached him. When the police tried to handcuff Bodden, he did not comply to the fullest extent.
Bodden eventually complied and was taken to a city jail for the night on aggravated disorderly conduct and resisting arrest charges. He also faces numerous traffic charges. A hearing is scheduled to take place in Cleveland Municipal Court at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.
I would hope that this does not affect Bodden's playing time against the Steelers, but you never know what will happen. I wouldn't be surprised if Crennel punished Bodden by sitting him out for the opening Steelers, although I think something like that should be held off for the second week of the season if necessary. Bodden could also face a fine or suspension from the league. For our sake, let's hope that it'd only be a fine.
We finally received an update on the status of punter Dave Zastudil, reported by the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Zastudil hurt his back on Sunday, but is expected to play this Sunday against the Steelers.
"Anytime you have a back [injury] you're always worried because backs are fickle," said coach Romeo Crennel. "Dave is an important guy, but I expect him to punt for us on Sunday."
Zastudil was limited in practice on Wednesday. They reportedly worked out five punters earlier in the week, but have sent all of them home. If Zastudil can't go this Sunday, Phil Dawson will probably handle the punting duties.
UPDATE (10:33 a.m.): Per WKNR, it seems as though Bodden's hearing will be set for September 25th.