Nebraska Tight End Arik Gilbert Arrested on Burglary Charges
Nebraska tight end Arik Gilbert has found himself in legal trouble once again. The 21-year-old was recently arrested on smash and grab burglary and obstruction of officers charges in Georgia, according to the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office arrest records. This arrest comes less than three weeks after Gilbert was arrested and jailed in Lincoln, Nebraska, on August 29th for burglarizing a vape shop.
In the previous arrest, Gilbert was apprehended by the Lincoln police at SJ’s Liquor and Vape Shop around 2 a.m. local time. He was found carrying a bag containing $1,672 worth of vape products, Delta 8, cigars, and lighters. Gilbert was taken into custody without incident and cited for burglary, a felony offense.
A former five-star recruiting prospect, Gilbert transferred to Nebraska in January after spending two seasons at Georgia and one at LSU. However, his immediate eligibility at Nebraska is still pending NCAA approval due to his status as a two-time transfer. Despite his legal troubles, Gilbert has continued to practice with the Huskers and remains listed on the Nebraska roster.
Nebraska coach Matt Rhule has refrained from making any public comments about Gilbert since his arrest in August. Rhule stated that the school would determine Gilbert’s status moving forward. It remains to be seen how this recent arrest will impact his standing with the team.
Gilbert’s playing time at Georgia in 2022 was limited due to personal issues. However, he had an impressive true freshman season at LSU in 2020, where he caught 35 passes for 368 yards. In 2019, he was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year during his time at Marietta High School in Georgia.
This latest arrest raises concerns about Gilbert’s future in football and his ability to stay out of legal trouble. It is unclear how these legal issues will affect his standing with the NCAA and his eligibility to play for Nebraska. The university will likely await the NCAA’s decision before making any further announcements regarding Gilbert’s status.
The arrest of a high-profile player like Gilbert brings attention to the ongoing issue of athletes getting involved in criminal activities. It raises questions about the responsibility of universities in recruiting and monitoring their players’ behavior off the field. The NCAA and schools must prioritize the well-being and character of their athletes, ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions.
As Gilbert’s legal proceedings continue, it is crucial for him to reflect on his choices and seek guidance to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to his behavior. He has the potential to turn his life around and make a positive impact both on and off the field. However, it will require personal growth, discipline, and a commitment to making better choices.
In conclusion, Arik Gilbert’s recent arrest on burglary charges is a cause for concern for both Nebraska and the NCAA. His legal troubles raise questions about his future in football and highlight the need for universities to prioritize the character and behavior of their athletes. Gilbert’s immediate eligibility at Nebraska is still pending NCAA approval, and the university will likely await the decision before making any further announcements. It is crucial for Gilbert to reflect on his choices and seek guidance to address any underlying issues. Only time will tell if he can turn his life around and make a positive impact both on and off the field.
