Photo of Leremy Tunsil and his mother, Desiree, posted on his mother’s Facebook account.
ESPN’s Brent McMurphy reports Ole Miss tackle Laremy Tunsil was arrested Friday for domestic violence. The incident occurred Thursday night and involved a dispute with his stepfather. Laremy turned himself in for a misdemeanor, domestic violence-simple assault. However, all indications are the incident was provoked by his stepfather trying to harm his mother and Tunsil was defending her. According to the Clarion-Ledger, the NCAA is investigating Ole Miss for potential rule violations involving their handling of the Tunsil situation. Here is what we know so far about the incident.
1. Laremy Was Defending His Mother
ESPN reports that Laremy’s stepfather pushed his mother, Desiree, and Laremy responded by punching his stepfather. At this time there is not additional information available about the incident, but it is believed that Tunsil was defending his mother. According to the USA Today, the police report will be available Monday morning which will provide more context on the incident.
2. Tunsil is Projected to be a Top 5 NFL Draft Pick
Laremy is expected to be a top pick in the NFL Draft if he declares. Tunsil is entering his junior season. According to NFL.com, he is the top tackle in college football. ESPN’s draft expert Todd McShay has him going #4 overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. It is unknown whether the alleged incident would affect his draft stock. Ole Miss reporter Riley Blevins reported that it depended on the situation:
An NFC scout on Tunsil situation, per http://t.co/DaZOJhKSxh: (Will) be met with understanding from NFL clubs … “if it checks out.”
3. Laremy and His Mother Are Pressing Charges Against His Stepfather
Laremy Tunsil is one of the top players for Ole Miss. (Getty)
At this point, it is unknown exactly what this will entail. Hugh Freeze mentioned in his statements that charges will be pressed against Laremy’s stepfather. Laremy tweeted this out on Friday:
Realize your enemy is not in the same position to reciprocate your energy
4. Hugh Freeze Released a Statement
Hugh Freeze looks on from the sideline. (Getty)
Hugh Freeze, Head Coach at Ole Miss, released this statement to ESPN:
We can confirm that Laremy Tunsil turned himself in and was arrested for a misdemeanor, domestic violence-simple assault. The incident occurred Thursday night and involves Laremy defending his mother against his stepfather.Laremy realizes he could have handled it differently, but I am proud of him for standing up for his mother and protecting his family. Laremy and his mother have also pressed charges against the stepfather. As we gather more facts, we will act and make decisions accordingly.”
5. Laremy Suffered a Fractured Fibula and Dislocated Ankles in Last Game
Laremy Tunsil Was Injured in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl. (Getty)
In an unfortunate incident, Laremy was injured during the last game he played in the 2014 college football season. It was the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl against TCU. According to the Ole Miss website, he is expected to be able to start once the upcoming football season starts. He had a goal of running by June.