Bears tackle Webb arrested on pot charges
As if the Bears didn't have enough problems on an offensive line that has allowed a whopping 149 sacks over the last three seasons, starting left tackle J'Marcus Webb was arrested Sunday night for possession of a controlled substance (cannabis, less than 2.5 ounces) and paraphernalia and speeding.
Webb, 24, was arrested in downstate Pulaski County and was released Monday after posting $500 of his $5,000 bail.
Wednesday afternoon the Bears issued the following statement: “We are aware of the recent arrest of J'Marcus Webb in Pulaski County, Illinois. We are currently gathering information to learn more about the circumstances surrounding the arrest.”
NFL representatives also plan to look into Webb's arrest, but it's unlikely he would be disciplined since he has had no known legal matters until this arrest. Webb was stopped by police for speeding on I-57, with reports saying he was 11 mph over the 65-mph limit.
Despite struggling through some rough patches in pass protection, Webb has started all 16 games at left tackle in each of the last two seasons. He started 12 games at right tackle as a rookie in 2010 after being drafted in the seventh round out of West Texas A&M.
After allowing a sack last season against the Green Bay Packers in Week Two, Webb was involved in a sideline altercation when he was verbally berated and then bumped by quarterback Jay Cutler. In 2011, Webb led the NFL with 14 sacks allowed. His play improved last season, but he still allowed 9 sacks. His base salary for next season is $1.32 million.
The Bears are expected to give serious consideration to selecting an offensive lineman, perhaps a left tackle, with their first pick in the April draft. This year's rookie class features several offensive linemen who are considered first-round talents.
The Bears may also look for offensive line help in the free-agent market, which opens March 12.
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