Notre Dame wide receiver Kevin Stepherson and running back C.J. Holmes were both arrested for shoplifting this week, resulting in suspensions. However, more details have emerged about why Stepherson is in trouble, and it likely means the end of his tenure at Notre Dame.
As reported by Mike Vorel of ND Insider, Stepherson has also been charged with “possession of marijuana, speeding and driving without a valid driver’s license.”
Stepherson was already on probation prior to this latest run-in with the law after making a deal following an arrest in 2016 for misdemeanor marijuana possession. Based on comments made by coach Brian Polian following the news of the shoplifting arrest, it seems like Stepherson will be on his way out of the program soon.
“There are a lot of talented football players out there, but not all of them fit who we are,” said Polian, per Vorel. “We’re not going to hide from what makes us different. We’re not going to apologize for it … the things that make Notre Dame distinct.”
A sophomore, Stepherson sat out the first four games of the 2017 season for undisclosed disciplinary reasons. He played in seven games total for the Fighting Irish this past season, catching 19 passes for 359 yards and five touchdowns. Undeniably talented, he has caught 10 touchdowns the past two years and is a threat to take every pass the distance.
Unfortunately, it appears his off-field issues might derail his promising career barring a significant turnaround in the coming years.