TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — This was clearly not the way Alabama head football coach Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide wanted to conclude what had been a productive summer workout session.
According to a report from the Tuscaloosa Police Department, senior defensive end Da’Shawn Hand was arrested and charged with driving under the influence earlier today. Despite being immediately released on $1,000 bond, Hand is expected to be a valued contributor next season along the defensive line. The 6-foot-4, 288-pounder was a five-star recruit upon signing in 2014 and totaled 21 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks as a junior in 2016.
As he always does in these situations, Saban is currently gathering all information possible on what happened with Hand. He released a statement today, per UA’s athletic department of communications.
“This type of behavior is not acceptable and we are disappointed in Da’Shawn’s actions. We are still gathering information and will evaluate what we need to do in terms of appropriate discipline as we move forward, so better choices and decisions can be made in the future.”- Alabama head coach Nick Saban
The Crimson Tide is schedule to begin fall camp on Thursday, Aug. 3 and open its 2017 season versus Florida State on Saturday, Sept. 2 in Atlanta. No news has been reported as to whether Hand will be suspended for that matchup.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
