Alabama suspends DB Kirkpatrick Jr. after arrest

**Alabama Defensive Back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. Suspended Indefinitely Following Marijuana Arrest**

**TUSCALOOSA, Ala.** – University of Alabama defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. has been suspended indefinitely from the football program following his arrest early Sunday morning on a charge of possession of marijuana, head coach Kalen DeBoer announced Monday.

Kirkpatrick Jr., a redshirt freshman, was taken into custody by Tuscaloosa County law enforcement. According to Tuscaloosa County jail records, he was booked on a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana, 2nd degree. Details surrounding the arrest, including the specific location and circumstances, were not immediately released, but jail records indicate the arrest occurred shortly after 2:00 a.m. Sunday. He has since been released on bond.

Coach DeBoer addressed the media Monday afternoon, confirming the indefinite suspension. “We have high expectations for all of our student-athletes, both on and off the field,” DeBoer stated. “Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. has been indefinitely suspended from all team activities. We will continue to gather information and address this situation appropriately, in line with university and athletic department policies.”

This incident marks an early test for DeBoer, who is entering his first season as the Crimson Tide’s head coach after Nick Saban’s retirement. DeBoer has emphasized discipline and accountability since taking the helm in January.

Kirkpatrick Jr. played primarily on special teams during the 2023 season as a true freshman, appearing in four games, which allowed him to maintain his redshirt status. He recorded one tackle on the season. He was expected to compete for a more significant role in the defensive backfield and on special teams in the upcoming season.

The 19-year-old defensive back carries a notable family legacy within the Alabama football program. His father, Dre Kirkpatrick Sr., was a standout cornerback for the Crimson Tide from 2010-2011, contributing to two BCS National Championship teams. Kirkpatrick Sr. went on to be a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2012 by the Cincinnati Bengals, playing nine seasons in the league, also having stints with the Arizona Cardinals and New Orleans Saints.

As an indefinite suspension, there is no immediate timeline for Kirkpatrick Jr.’s potential return to the team. The legal process for the misdemeanor marijuana charge will proceed through the Tuscaloosa County court system. Further disciplinary actions, if any, will likely be determined by the university and athletic department pending the outcome of the legal case and the program’s internal review.