This past spring, the Dallas Cowboys took a gamble selecting cornerback Jourdan Lewis, who is facing a domestic abuse charge.
He is accused of dragging his girlfriend across the floor by her hair, grabbing her neck and holding her down during his time at Michigan.
Now his trial is set to take place next week just as training camp begins after failing to settle. According to Orion Sang of the Dallas Morning News, Lewis will miss the first two days of camp as his trial takes place on Monday and Tuesday.
“Parties will always prefer to avoid trials if they can,” said John Shea, Lewis’ attorney. “Some cases, they have to be tried, and this is one.”
Lewis is facing a “statute misdemeanor charge of domestic violence.”
The Cowboys were well aware of this charge before they selected him in the third round (No. 92 overall) in the 2017 NFL Draft. Owner Jerry Jones said they “thoroughly looked at his situation” and that “We feel real good about the pick,” per Darin Gantt of Pro Football Talk.
“Outstanding off-the-field character throughout his life, great strength of character,” Jones said of Lewis. “We were satisfied we would be OK there.”
Lewis himself has staunchly defended his innocence. Jury selection and opening statements are set to occur on Monday, July 24, while witness testimony is set for Tuesday.