Former Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold could return to the NFL sooner than expected despite facing multiple felony charges in Florida, according to his attorney.

Speaking during a recent court hearing, attorney Harvey Steinberg said he expects Arnold to sign with another NFL team within the next 30 days. Steinberg also told the court that three NFL teams have already reached out to express interest since the Lions released the 23-year-old defensive back on Monday.

Arnold officially became subject to the NFL waiver process following his release and was expected to clear waivers on Thursday afternoon, after which he would be eligible to sign with any team. Whether a franchise is willing to do so remains uncertain given the serious criminal case he is facing.

Arnold was arrested on June 24 and charged with four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery in connection with an incident that allegedly occurred in February.

According to prosecutors, Arnold orchestrated the abduction and robbery of three men whom he believed had stolen money and luxury items from him. If convicted, the charges could carry a potential sentence of life in prison under Florida law.

Arnold has denied the allegations through his legal team. His representatives maintain that there is no evidence directly linking him to the crimes and have stated that he intends to fight the charges in court.

The case is being overseen by Chief Judge Christopher C. Sabella, who denied prosecutors’ request to keep Arnold in custody while the case proceeds. As a result, Arnold has been allowed to remain free pending trial and is legally permitted to continue pursuing an NFL career.

Although teams have until July 6 to submit a waiver claim, Arnold could still face action from the league under the NFL’s Commissioner’s Exempt List policy, which allows players facing serious legal matters to be placed on paid leave while their cases remain unresolved.

Arnold entered the NFL with high expectations after being selected 24th overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2024 NFL Draft following a standout collegiate career at Alabama.

However, his professional career never fully developed in Detroit. Over two seasons, Arnold appeared in 24 of a possible 34 games, missing time because of a concussion and a shoulder injury. He recorded one interception before the Lions decided to move on from the former first-round draft pick.

The criminal proceedings remain ongoing, and no trial date has yet been announced. Until the case is resolved, Arnold’s NFL future is expected to remain uncertain despite reported interest from multiple teams.

Source: New York Post