Jonathan Newsome's Marijuana Charges Dropped: Latest Details and Comments

Free-agent linebacker Jonathan Newsome was in a dancing mood on Thursday.

Matthew VanTryon of Sporting News reported the former Indianapolis Colt had marijuana possession charges against him dropped in court. Newsome took to Twitter to celebrate the news:

"

Charges Dropped!  pic.twitter.com/sFCGkFQahb

— Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) April 7, 2016"

This comes after the Colts released Newsome in February following his arrest, per Mike Wells of ESPN.com. Police showed up at his apartment after a loud-music complaint was filed, and they took Newsome into custody because he was seen with marijuana.   

Wells noted it was the second time in a three-week time frame police arrived at the linebacker’s apartment because of a loud-music complaint. One of Newsome’s friends was charged with possession of marijuana the first time.

What’s more, Newsome was suspended in 2012 when he was still playing for Ball State because of a possession arrest for having a bag with marijuana in his wallet.

Newsome showed contrition and indicated that he had grown from his mistakes on Twitter after the Colts released him in February:

"

I learned alot during my time here in Indianapolis, becoming a better football player and person. I have made mistakes, but ive grown.

— Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016"

"

Somethings happen and I cant question God and his plan. Bottom line you have to stay the course and pray about it but never worry about it.

— Jonathan Newsome (@JNEW_11) February 22, 2016"

Indianapolis selected him in the fifth round in 2014, and he proceeded to lead the Colts with 6.5 sacks as a rookie. Chris Phillips of Pro Football Focus said Newsome was the “2015 Colts’ PFF Secret Superstar” after his breakout rookie campaign, and the Ball State product’s future looked bright.

However, he followed that effort up with only one sack last season in 14 games.

The lack of production combined with the legal issues were concerning for a free-agent linebacker looking for a job for the 2016 campaign. However, the fact the charges were dropped is encouraging news for Newsome and will likely help his chances of landing a spot on an NFL roster this offseason.

He is still only 25 years old and proved he can be an impact pass-rusher in the NFL with speed off the edge.

NFL teams are always on the lookout for an additional pass-rushing presence, and Newsome no longer has the marijuana charges looming over his head.