Eagles Rookie Released After Arrest

The Philadelphia Eagles released safety Terrence Carroll, who was arrested Friday night on marijuana possession charges.

Coach Andy Reid hasn't made a decision about the future of two other rookies who were detained along with Carroll, including leading rusher Correll Buckhalter. The team suspended Buckhalter, Carroll and defensive back Darrel Crutchfield after they were taken into police custody Friday night when officers smelled marijuana in their sport-utility vehicle during a stop. Police said they found a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle. Carroll was charged with misdemeanor possession and released by police Saturday. No charges were filed against Buckhalter and Crutchfield, and both were released by police Friday.

The players didn't join the team for Sunday's game in Dallas. Reid isn't sure when he'll allow Buckhalter and Crutchfield to return. The first-place Eagles (6-3) play the Washington Redskins on Sunday.

"As far as their playing status, roster status or practice status go, I will withhold any comment on that until I have a little time to let that settle in," Reid said Monday.

The team was given a day off Monday.

Since Reid took over in 1999, the image-conscious Eagles have consistently stayed away from players with character concerns. Reid cut running back Thomas Hamner, a sixth-round pick in 2000, shortly after he was charged with animal cruelty in the off-season.

Carroll and Crutchfield, both signed as free agents, haven't been in uniform for a game this season. But Buckhalter played a significant role when starting running back Duce Staley went down with a shoulder injury in the second week. He has 428 yards rushing on 92 carries, an average of 4.7 yards, and two touchdowns.

Staley returned to the starting lineup last week and has rushed for 248 yards in the last two games, both Eagles victories. He rushed for 102 yards on 26 carries in a 36-3 victory over Dallas on Sunday.

Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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Author: 6 - ABC, Action News