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Justin Hunter is in some deep trouble. The Tennessee Titans wide receiver was involved in a bar altercation that resulted in assault charges and put his future with the team in doubt. Hunter specifically was charged with “stabbing, cutting, malicious intent and wounding” after a brawl inside the Sandbar Raw Bar.
The third year wide receiver out of Tennessee was regarded as a potential breakout player heading into 2014, but failed as a go-to threat and recorded just 28 receptions for 498 yards and three touchdowns. While possessing the size and athleticism to turn into a big play threat, Hunter never displayed the awareness or consistency to develop into a star in his second season and missed the final three games of the year due to a lacerated spleen.
Already falling down the depth chart after the Titans signed Harry Douglas and drafted Dorial Green-Beckham in the 2015 NFL Draft, Hunter’s run-in with the law could have him exiting the team. Hunter reportedly bulked up in an effort to get stronger and more physical when attacking the ball, but his physicality in a bar is what could derail a once promising NFL career. The Titans now have enough depth at wide receiver to cut the cord if Hunter’s off field issues become a bigger problem than they already are.
The 24-year old Hunter still has the talent to turn into a star, but his questionable decision-making on and off the field are starting to cloud his potential. Hunter did turn himself in upon learning that there was a warrant out for his arrest, and the investigation of the incident is said to be ongoing. It’s still possible Hunter was falsely named as the attacker, or he could have been involved and just acting in self defense. The reports suggest otherwise, but it appears the Titans will take in all of the information before making a final decision.
Even if not convicted, Hunter could be in danger of a team and/or league fine and suspension.
Should the Titans decide to cut ties with Hunter, they’d move on with Kendall Wright, Harry Douglas, Hakeem Nicks and Green-Beckham as their top receivers. Hunter would still potentially be a big help for rookie quarterback Marcus Mariota if the charges are dropped and he remains with the team. With or without Hunter, though, the Titans are a young squad that isn’t expect to make much noise in 2015, even in the weak AFC South.
