Former Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold appears to be headed for the Seattle Seahawks, but there are a few roadblocks in the way before the former first-round pick can see the field.
Arnold and the Seahawks have agreed upon a contract, but Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said recently that they’re working through some things before they officially sign him.
“We’re working through that and when’s the best time for him to come in, but we have an agreement with him and we’ll see,” Macdonald said.“But I just really don’t know what, you know, how we’re gonna do it.”
Arnold is currently facing eight felony charges from an incident in Florida involving an alleged armed robbery and kidnapping. According to the latest reports, his next court date in the trial is Oct. 5.
According to the latest report from Ian Rapoport, this process is expected to move slowly for the Seahawks, and “it will take a while” before they sign Arnold. One huge blockade in this process is the fact that Arnold, according to Rapoport, will go on the Commissioner Exempt List once he signs with a team.
What is the Commissioner Exempt List?
Basically, it’s a designation that can only be made by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for players in “unusual circumstances.” Players on the exempt list are allowed to attend meetings, go through workouts, and receive treatment from the team. However, they are not allowed to play or practice during that time.
How long a player stays on the list is completely up to the commissioner. So in the case with Arnold, it could be until his legal proceedings are complete. It could be longer than that. It could be shorter than that.
Despite all of that, Rapoport says the Seahawks still intend to sign Arnold. It’s just not clear when—and if—he’ll be able to play for Seattle this season.