Childhood and Education Journey of Maurice Clarett in Timeline

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

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Maurice Clarett. From birth to education, explore key events.

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

October 29, 1983: Maurice Clarett's Birth

On October 29, 1983, Maurice Edward Clarett was born. He later became a professional football player.

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February 2002: Formal commitment to Ohio State Buckeyes

In February 2002, Clarett formally committed to play football for the Ohio State Buckeyes, choosing them over offers from Notre Dame, Fresno State, and the University of Miami.

2002: Early Battles with Depression and Alcoholism

As early as 2002, Clarett battled depression and alcoholism.

2002: Ohio State Season Start

In 2002, Clarett began playing for Ohio State, and during the 2002-2003 season, he rushed for 1,237 yards and scored 18 touchdowns.

2002: Tenth Anniversary

In November 2012, Ohio State celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the undefeated championship season of 2002.

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.

April 7, 2010: Early Release and Entry into Halfway House

On April 7, 2010, Judge Fais granted Clarett early release and ordered him to enter Maryhaven, a halfway house in Columbus, for up to six months.

August 23, 2010: Release from Halfway House

On August 23, 2010, Clarett was released from a halfway house.

November 2012: Invitation to Ohio State Anniversary Celebration

In November 2012, Clarett was invited back to Ohio State to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the undefeated championship season of 2002.

August 2013: Promoting Medicaid Expansion

In August 2013, Maurice Clarett joined mental health advocates in Ohio to promote the expansion of Medicaid, drawing from his personal experiences with depression.

December 2013: Featured in ESPN's "Youngstown Boys"

In December 2013, Maurice Clarett was featured in "Youngstown Boys", an ESPN 30 for 30 documentary. The documentary included interviews with family, friends, and associates.

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February 2014: Return to Ohio State University

In February 2014, Maurice Clarett was invited back to Ohio State University as part of a ceremony recognizing the National Championship team he played on and spoke to an audience discussing past troubles and his ongoing rehabilitation.

2018: Fundraiser for Joe Schiavoni

During the 2018 Ohio Gubernatorial election, Maurice Clarett headlined a political fundraiser for Democratic candidate Joe Schiavoni.

2018: Campaign Event with Mike DeWine

During the 2018 Ohio gubernatorial election, Maurice Clarett participated in a campaign event and panel discussion with Mike DeWine about improving education, workforce training, and recovery from addiction.