Insider explains Seahawks CB Terrion Arnold’s complicated suspension status

The Seattle Seahawks are willing to take some chances to upgrade their defense. Seattle recently signed cornerback Terrion Arnold despite his ongoing legal issues. One NFL insider explained that Arnold could face a serious suspension, but the situation is a bit complicated.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shed some more light on the Arnold situation during a recent interview.

“As for why [the Lions] released him, tis is the other part of it that is still ongoing, the legal matter,” Rapoport said on Friday via Good Morning Football. “He’s facing currently eight felony charges stemming from allegations that he orchestrated an abduction and beating of three men in February. Kidnapping and armed robbery are among the charges. He has denied this very strongly, the legal matter is still ongoing.”

Arnold signed a one-year deal with the Seahawks on August 13th. He will compete with Josh Jobe as a boundary corner in Seattle’s unique defensive scheme.

Rapoport also weighed in on the possible consequences the NFL could levy on Arnold. The biggest concern for the Seahawks would be Arnold facing a lengthy suspension.

“As far as the NFL goes, they have been monitoring all of these developments and this remains under review in the NFL’s personal conduct policy,” Rapoport added. “And yes, the Commissioner’s Exempt List, which would take him off the field before he plays, is a possibility here. So there are some answers, there’s a lot we don’t know.”

Rapoport added that if Arnold is added to the Commissioner’s Exempt List, he could be sidelined until the end of his legal matter is handled.

Arnold is currently cleared to practice and compete for his spot on Seattle’s roster. However, a potential suspension could drop from Roger Goodell seemingly at any time. Even if there are no developments before the regular season, Arnold could be pulled away because of breaking news in his legal situation.

As such, there’s nothing anyone can do but sit back and wait for further updates. Until then, Arnold should proceed business as usual.