NFL Draft 2012: Alfonzo Dennard Released From Jail

Dennard allegedly punched a man outside a bar in Lincoln, Neb. He’s accused of punching a police officer in the face who was trying to break up the fight. He reportedly continued to resist arrest until being restrained by four officers. In addition to the felony, he was also charged with two misdemeanors: third-degree assault and resisting arrest.

Before his arrest, Dennard was considered a likely second- or third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, which begins Thursday. Now, it won’t be a surprise to see his stock tumble all the way into the fourth round. From the Associated Press:

NFL.com draft analyst Gil Brandt said if Dennard drops from the third to fourth round because of the arrest, it could cost him about $300,000 in salary over a standard four-year rookie contract. Brandt said some teams might hesitate to take a player with a criminal record because NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has made it known he wants to the league to project a good image.

Dennard was involved in a notable on-field scuffle during his final game with the Cornhuskers, throwing a punch at South Caroline wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (video) during the Capital One Bowl. Both players were ejected from the game.

For more on Dennard, check out Nebraska blog Corn Nation.