Alabama Football Legacy Arrested for Reckless Endangerment

Crimson Tide defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. is under investigation by the University of Alabama after being charged with three counts of reckless endangerment, one count of attempting to elude and speeding.

Kirkpatrick was released on $1,500 bond within an hour of his booking, per AL.com.

"We are aware of an incident involving Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. and are working to gather more information," the university said in a statement.

The incident occurred during Alabama football's current bye week, as he was pulled over by the police and proceeded to run away.

Kirkpatrick is an Alabama legacy. He is the son of the former All-American and NFL standout Dre Kirkpatrick Sr. The former first-round NFL Draft pick played at UA from 2009-11, helping the Crimson Tide to its first two National Championship victories of the Nick Saban era. Kirkpatrick Sr. played in the NFL for 10 years, including eight with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kirkpatrick Jr. has appeared in all eight games for Alabama this season, totaling nine tackles. He recorded a tackle for loss and forced a fumble during the Crimson Tide's 73-0 win over Louisiana Monroe in Week 2. The sophomore was also ejected during that game for targeting.

The 5-foot-11, 202-pounder played some key snaps in close games this season, despite not being a starter. Kirkpatrick Jr. is listed on the depth chart as the backup strong safety, behind starter Keon Sabb. Kirkpatrick Jr. is still on Alabama's official roster as of Sunday morning.

Kirkpatrick Jr. made an impact for Alabama on special teams in 2024, as he played in all 13 games, recording three total tackles.

The former 2024 3-star safety out of Gadsden City High School was considered the No. 75 overall prospect in the state of Alabama at the time of his commitment on Aug. 18, 2023. He was offered a scholarship by UA on July 25, 2023 after a strong camp performance. Kirkpatrick Jr. chose Alabama over Missouri, Auburn and Arkansas.