The most notable arrest this offseason has been Hernandez, who’s charged with killing Odin Lloyd, a semi-pro football player who was once an acquaintance of Hernandez.
No matter the statistics, the league is in the midst of an image controversy, and it doesn’t just stop at arrests.
Just like dreadlocks were the image discussion fodder in the league in the 2000s, tattoos have become the hot topic lately. Much was made last season of Colin Kaepernick’s heavily tattooed arms by some columnists and analysts who said such body decoration is unbecoming of a franchise quarterback.
When Panthers owner Jerry Richardson found out Cam Newton did not have any tattoos or piercings in 2011 pre-draft interviews, Richardson said he told Newton to “keep it that way.”
Hernandez’ tattoos have come into the discussion since his arrest due to having a red “Blood” tattoo on his right hand. It is still unclear if Hernandez has any gang ties.
According to a CBSSports.com report, in the wake of the Hernandez case, teams may begin using a police expert to examine prospects’ tattoos before the draft.
Munnerlyn is covered www.falconsnflofficialshop.com/Authentic-Tony-Gonzalez-Jersey in ink. When he was at South Carolina, he hid his tattoos from his mother, who is a minister, by having them only on his chest, back and upper arms. He had a tattoo of her face on his left bicep for a year before she found out.
Once Munnerlyn was in the NFL, he began adding to his collection along his arms and legs.