Browns give DT Malik McDowell shot at NFL comeback after ATV accident, arrests
McDowell suffered serious injuries, including to his head, in an ATV accident in July 2017 and subsequently committed a series of crimes to which he eventually pleaded guilty. Three of his arrests involved alcohol, including one during which he assaulted a police officer at a gas station. Another arrest stemmed from him possessing a stolen truck. He was sentenced to 11 months in jail and three years of probation in 2019.
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The Browns signed McDowell, 6-foot-6 and 295 pounds, partly because they believe he has turned his life around while attempting a comeback.
“We are certainly aware of Malik’s past, as we have done extensive work on him for the last two months,” Browns general manager Andrew Berry said in a statement. “He is accountable for his actions and has had to live with the consequences for decisions earlier in his life. We believe Malik is in a good place, personally and medically. He has taken the necessary steps to get on a healthy path, and has learned from his experiences.