Dallas Cowboys safety Markquese Bell is facing drug charges after an arrest in Collin County, Texas.
According to Collin County records, Bell was arrested on Friday. He was placed in lower level booking before being released on Saturday. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance and marijuana.
Bell, a former undrafted free agent, has been a member of the Cowboys since the 2022 season. He suited up at safety for five games during his rookie season and tallied one tackle. One season later, he appeared in all 17 games while starting eight. He registered two forced fumbles and 96 tackles.
The safety has appeared in 26 games over the last two seasons while adding 47 tackles and one more forced fumble. He registered his first interception last season.
ESPN notes that possession of a controlled substance is a felony. Possession of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor. This arrest also puts Bell at risk of discipline from the NFL under the personal conduct policy.
“Conduct by anyone in the league that is illegal, violent, dangerous, or irresponsible puts innocent victims at risk, damages the reputation of others in the game, and undercuts public respect and support for the NFL,” the policy states.
“We must endeavor at all times to be people of high character; we must show respect for others inside and outside our workplace; and we must conduct ourselves in ways that favorably reflect on ourselves, our teams, the communities we represent, and the NFL.”
Numerous infractions fall under the list of punishable offenses in this policy. This includes stalking, harassment, illegal possession of a weapon, possession or use of steroids, and “illegal possession, use, or distribution of alcohol or drugs.”
The league notes that it will investigate the situation when applicable and will discipline the violator if necessary. That person will have the opportunity to appeal the decision.
