Jerome Simpson: Bengals Wide Receiver Pleads Guilty to Felony Drug Charge

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jerome Simpson has plead guilty to the charges placed against him for his run-in with the law over marijuana. 

According to WLWT in Cincinnati, Simpson plead guilty to a felony drug charge. 

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The judge said Simpson faces up to three years probation, 60 days in jail with work release and 200 hours community service.

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Simpson spent the last three seasons with the Bengals after they drafted him with the No. 46 pick in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

He was indicted after police intercepted a package containing 2.5 pounds of marijuana being shipped from California to Simpson's home in northern Kentucky. 

What It Means 

Simpson agreeing with prosecutors means his punishment will not be as harsh as it could have been. Still, the possibility of serving any amount of jail time is not good.  

There's no doubt that Simpson will be facing a suspension from the league for violating the NFL's conduct policy.

There's an April 5 sentencing hearing where the judge will decide whether or not to accept the agreement that has been made, but Simpson can request for a reduced sentence. Simpson's fate is up to the judge now. 

What Happens Next 

With an impending suspension from the NFL and potential jail time, Simpson's days in Cincinnati could definitely be numbered. 

He's a free agent this offseason, and it wouldn't be a surprise if the Bengals chose to part ways with him. 

Then again, they could bring him back, as they have been known to pick up troubled players in the past. 

Simpson made a huge mistake, and he will have to suffer the consequences, which might mean never playing in the NFL again. That is, of course, a worst case scenario that hinders on his ultimate sentencing.