Despite his recent arrest for assault charges stemming from a bar fight, the Tennessee Titans expect Justin Hunter at training camp next week.
ESPN’s Ed Werder has the details, noting the Titans would rather let the legal process play out than make a definitive move right now:
Source: #Titans will let legal process play out, expect @justinhunter_11 to take part when training camp opens. Arrested for felony assault
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) July 22, 2015
This is a somewhat surprising development, given the fact Hunter’s alleged victim suffered a broken jaw and cracked tooth. Tennessee, by rule, could use the same tactic employed by Minnesota and Carolina last year when Adrian Peterson and Greg Hardy were both placed on paid leave for their transgressions.
After word came out of his involvement in the bar brawl, many wondered if Hunter’s NFL career was over. Apparently that’s not the mindset of the Titans, but one must wonder why, given the current climate regarding violent offenders in the NFL.
Hunter was officially charged with malicious wounding and released on a $25,000 bond on Tuesday. If convicted, he could face between 5-20 years in prison for his actions.
On a football note, Hunter is expected to compete with rookie Dorial Green-Beckham for a starting spot at receiver for the Titans this summer. In two years as a pro, he has caught 46 passes for 852 yards and seven touchdowns.
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