Wolfe not guaranteed a spot in NFL

By Tony Osborne

As we move into the beginning of summer, the NFL lockout continues to loom over the heads of coaches, fans and players alike.

Even NFL veterans are showing the displeasure around the league with the continuous staring contest between players and management.

Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Ray Lewis shared his feelings on the current NFL lockout with ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, saying, “Do this research if we don’t have a season – watch how much evil, which we call crime, watch how much crime picks up if you take away our game.”

Though Lewis directed this quote toward devoted fans, 13 NFL players have been arrested since the lockout started.

That said, the prior statement hits a little closer to home in DeKalb.

Former NIU stand-out running back Garrett Wolfe was arrested on May 22 outside a Miami nightclub. Wolfe was said to be stopped by security and two off-duty police officers in regard to an outstanding $1,600 bar tab.

Miami Beach Police Officer Juan Sanchez told the Chicago Sun Times: “He became aggressive while being ejected by bouncers, and two off-duty officers were summoned. They gave him the opportunity to settle his bill and he refused. He attacked one of the officers. Both officers suffered minor injuries.”

Wolfe was released after posting an $11,500 bond for charges including retail theft, disorderly conduct, assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. There was no court date, according to the press release.

With this hefty bail amount and a $1,600 tab, you would think the lockout and lack of paychecks would affect the players’ pocket books.

So why would a career backup running back spend freely and party at nightclubs in Miami when he could be keeping himself in shape for if and when the lockout is uplifted?

Wolfe also has the disadvantage of being in limbo. He is due to be a free agent this offseason, but the current lockout prevents him from resigning with the Bears or any other team. If a collective bargaining agreement is reached, Wolfe is free to sign anywhere.

The former Huskie tailback, who has rushed for 274 yards and one touchdown on 68 carries in 41 games, spent most of his playing time in the NFL on special teams.

Wolfe’s resume isn’t adding up the way Bears general manager Jerry Angelo hoped it would when drafting the running back out of NIU in the third round.

Whether the lockout is lifted or not, this certainly will not guarantee Wolfe a spot in the NFL.