Washington Redskins Breaking News: Brandon Meriweather Arrested for DWI

Washington Redskins safety Brandon Meriweather was arrested early this morning for DWI (driving while intoxicated) in Arlington, VA, according to ESPN.  Meriweather was suspected of driving under the influence after officers smelled alcohol, but he refused to submit to a breathalyzer. There has been no response from the Redskins or NFL about a possible suspension for Meriweather. 

Meriweather joined the Redskins this offseason by signing a two-year, $6 million contract, along with other free-agent safeties (Tanard Jackson). While it is too early to speculate about possible punishments, this arrest does not bode well for the two-time Pro Bowler.

This is not the first time the NFL has had to deal with less than exemplary behavior from Meriweather. In 2010, Meriweather delivered a brutal head-to-head hit on Ravens tight end Todd Heap. Ultimately, the league fined Meriweather $50,000 with no suspension, but that should not be expected this time.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has taken an extremely hard-line approach to off-the-field problems with players, and will not hesitate when it comes to punishment. There is no report yet on when any legal proceedings surrounding this arrest will take place, but the Redskins will look to address this issue quickly.

Roger Goodell has shown in the past that he is willing to punish players for off-the-field incidents before the legal system passes judgment. While it is too early to know both sides of this story, Redskins fans should prepare for the possibility that Meriweather may be suspended anywhere from one to four games.