OSU: Off-the-field troubles hurt

NFL scouts brought more than stop watches and notepads to college campuses around the country to evaluate prospects for this week's NFL Draft.

Scouts also brought a message for coaches: "Stress to your players it's imperative to avoid off-the-field trouble.”

That's why Oklahoma State wide receiver Adarius Bowman's arrest earlier this month for possession of marijuana could significantly hurt him in the draft.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell reportedly is preparing an even stronger player conduct policy to combat his league's image that he's running a league with out-of-control players.

If Goodell has his way, NFL teams could find themselves paying large fines, possibly lose draft picks, if they continue to insist on drafting and keeping players with off-the-field issues.

That's why some believe Bowman's arrest could be costly. The Sporting News said Bowman has dropped from a second round pick to possibly going in rounds five or six.

"Once viewed as the best big receiver (6-foot-4) in this draft, Bowman's stock has plummeted since he struggled to catch the ball and elude defenders at the Senior Bowl,” wrote TSN' Russ Lande. "He also ran poorly at the combine and was arrested on a marijuana charge.”

Bowman's stock began to slip with a poor showing at the Senior Bowl. That was followed by a slow 4.74 time in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.

Then came the biggest blow of all. Pulled over for a speeding ticket, Bowman tossed a bag of marijuana out his car window. It was a small amount. It's a misdemeanor charge. But on sheriff Goodell's watch, that small amount of marijuana could cost Bowman big bucks.

The arrest occurred in Chattanooga, Tenn., while visiting his mother, Tara. When his mother learned of the arrest she was so upset she slammed a door, cut her arm and had to go to the emergency room to get 13 stitches.

"I love my son and I know in my heart he's hurt because I know how much he cares about what people think of him,” Tara was quoted. "But if you allow something this stupid to come between you and all the money and peace of mind you were about to have…”

At OSU's Pro Day a month ago, Bowman was asked if he would be disappointed if he wasn't selected the first day, i.e. the first three rounds.

"I won't be mad either way,” Bowman said. "All I look at is only one team's got to like you. Whichever one takes me, I'm going to be happy. I feel like it's a positive even if I go in the 6th or 7th (rounds).”

Following his recent arrest, that's exactly where Bowman might wind up being selected. There's a chance he might not even be drafted, although some team probably will take him based on his strength, good size and blocking skills.