Alabama football fans were shocked this weekend after news broke that defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. had been arrested on several charges.
The incident comes as the Crimson Tide are enjoying a strong season under new leadership, making the news even more surprising for the program and its supporters.
Details of the Arrest
According to jail records cited by AL.com, Kirkpatrick Jr. faces three counts of reckless endangerment, one count of attempting to elude, and a speeding charge.
He was booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail on Saturday and later released on a $1,500 bond.
A spokesperson for University of Alabama athletics said, “We are aware of an incident involving Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. and are working to gather more details at this time.”
Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. is the son of former NFL star Dre Kirkpatrick Sr., who played at Alabama from 2009 to 2011 before being selected 17th overall in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Kirkpatrick Sr. went on to have a 10-year career in the NFL, including stints with the Bengals, Cardinals, and 49ers.
Like his father, Kirkpatrick Jr. followed the Crimson Tide path, joining Alabama’s program last year as a three-star recruit.
He appeared in 13 games last season and has played in all eight contests this year.
On-Field Performance
This season, Kirkpatrick Jr. has recorded nine combined tackles and one tackle for loss.
The Crimson Tide have been performing well under head coach Kalen DeBoer, boasting a 7-1 overall record and sitting second in the SEC with a 5-0 conference mark.
After Nick Saban’s retirement, Alabama struggled last year, finishing just 5-3 in SEC play.
But under DeBoer, the team has bounced back, securing impressive wins against Georgia, Missouri, and Tennessee.
Looking Ahead
Alabama now turns its attention to hosting LSU next weekend as they aim to secure their eighth win of the season.
Fans will be watching closely not only for the team’s performance but also for any updates on Kirkpatrick Jr.’s legal situation.