Ravens’ Sams Is Charged With DUI
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Baltimore Ravens kick returner B.J. Sams was arrested and charged with driving under the influence early Tuesday morning outside of Baltimore, his second DUI arrest in 14 months. Sams, second in the NFL in kickoff returns with a 30.9-yard average, could be subject to a fine or suspension by the NFL. His arrest was first reported by the Baltimore Sun. Sams, who turns 26 this month, was stopped shortly before 2 a.m. Tuesday after his Chevrolet Tahoe reportedly swerved and nearly hit another car on Interstate 83, according to the Maryland State Police. The trooper smelled a strong odor of alcohol, and Sams was arrested without incident. He was released Tuesday morning. Team spokesman Kevin Byrne declined to comment, other than to say the team is aware of the situation and that “we will now let due process take its course.” Baltimore Coach Brian Billick gave players Tuesday and yesterday off. Practices resume today in preparation for Monday night’s game at the Denver Broncos. Last August, Sams was charged with driving under the influence, negligent driving and speeding after being pulled over for going 89 mph in a 55 mph zone. He was given probation before judgment for driving a vehicle while impaired. According to the NFL’s substance abuse policy regarding alcohol-related offenses, the commissioner “will review and may impose a fine, suspension, or other appropriate discipline if a player is convicted of or admits to a violation of the law.” A second violation could result in a four-game suspension. Sams has been the Ravens’ primary punt and kickoff returner since he made the team as an undrafted rookie in 2004. He set a single-season franchise record with 1,826 combined return yards during his first season. Wide receiver Mark Clayton returned six punts as a rookie last year, and undrafted rookie running back Cory Ross made the 53-man roster in part because of his returning ability. |