Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Maurice Clarett

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 7, 2025

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Maurice Clarett.

Maurice Clarett is a former American football player, primarily known for his brief but impactful college career at Ohio State. As a freshman, he played a key role in the Buckeyes' national championship victory. He then unsuccessfully challenged the NFL's draft eligibility rules which prevented him from entering the draft early. Despite initial high expectations, his professional career was short-lived, including a stint with the Denver Broncos after being drafted in the third round and later with the Omaha Nighthawks of the UFL.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

December 2002: Criticism of OSU Officials

In December 2002, Clarett publicly criticized Ohio State University officials for not paying for him to fly home for a friend's funeral.

July 2003: Academic Scandal

In July 2003, Clarett was at the center of an academic scandal when a teaching assistant claimed he received preferential treatment and did not attend classes at Ohio State.

September 10, 2003: Suspension from Ohio State

On September 10, 2003, Clarett was suspended for the 2003 season at Ohio State.

2004: Legal Challenge to NFL Draft Rules

In 2004, Clarett challenged the NFL's rule requiring players to wait three years after high school graduation to enter the draft. A federal judge initially ruled in Clarett's favor, but the decision was later overturned.

2005: Draft Eligibility Blocked

In 2005, the NFL blocked Clarett from entering the draft before 2005 and the NCAA refused to reinstate his college eligibility, after signing with agents.

January 1, 2006: Police Search for Clarett

On January 1, 2006, police announced that they were searching for Clarett in connection with two armed robberies outside the Opium Lounge dance club in Columbus. He allegedly stole a cell phone valued at $150.

February 10, 2006: Indictment on Aggravated Robbery Charges

On February 10, 2006, Clarett was indicted by a Franklin County grand jury on two counts of aggravated robbery with gun specifications and other charges, potentially facing up to 25 years in prison.

February 22, 2006: Not Guilty Plea and Release on Bail

On February 22, 2006, Clarett pleaded not guilty to aggravated-robbery charges and was released on $20,000 bail.

July 26, 2006: Firing of Lawyers

On July 26, 2006, Clarett fired his lawyers, William Settina and Robert Krapenc, shortly before his trial date due to unpaid fees and lack of cooperation.

August 9, 2006: Bond Increased

On August 9, 2006, Judge David Fais increased Clarett's bond to $1.1 million due to Clarett's arrest earlier that morning.

August 10, 2006: Columbus Dispatch Interview

On August 10, 2006, Jim Terry claimed in an interview with the Columbus Dispatch that Clarett attempted to call him minutes before the events of August 9 that led to Clarett's arrest.

August 11, 2006: Additional Status Hearing and Trial Delay

On August 11, 2006, Judge Fais held an additional status hearing, delayed the trial until September 18, 2006, revoked the $1.1 million bond, and ordered Clarett to undergo a mental health evaluation.