Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr., a former University of Georgia standout, was arrested in Georgia last week on suspicion of speeding and reckless driving, according to authorities.
The Twiggs County Sheriff's Office reported that Smith was taken into custody on the night of May 15 for driving 135 mph in a 70 mph zone. He posted bond and was released approximately one hour later.
Smith, a Savannah, Georgia native, was selected by the Eagles with the 30th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. Over three seasons, he has accumulated 25 quarterback hits, 10.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
He played a pivotal role in the Eagles' Super Bowl LIX championship run, recording five quarterback hits, four sacks, and four tackles for loss during the playoffs. Notably, he refused to leave the Eagles' 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs despite suffering a torn triceps that later required surgery.
Philadelphia is set to begin organized team activities on Tuesday. Smith has a scheduled court date on July 15, but a sheriff's office representative indicated he will not need to appear if he pays his fines.
A spokesperson for the Eagles did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.
Smith is the latest former or current Georgia player to face driving-related charges. His Eagles teammate, Jalen Carter, received 12 months' probation and a $1,000 fine in 2023 after pleading no contest to misdemeanor reckless driving and racing charges linked to a crash that killed Bulldogs offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy.
