Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Malik McDowell was arrested Monday in Deerfield Beach, Fla., on charges of public demonstration, aggravated battery of an officer, and resisting arrest, according to Broward County Court records.
"We are aware of the incident and arrest related to Malik McDowell and are in the process of gathering more information," Brown said in a statement. "We understand the gravity of this matter and our thoughts are for the good of all involved. We have no further comment at this time."
McDowell, 25, played his first full NFL season in 2021 after being selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the 2017 draft. McDowell suffered a head injury in an automobile accident when Seattle drafted him and spent his rookie season on the non-football injury list. The Michigan state product then had several run-ins with the law, including a DUI and disorderly conduct, and was charged with assault, resisting arrest, and driving while intoxicated.
Seattle released McDowell in March of 2019, and the league suspended him for two games. Later in 2019, McDowell was sentenced to 11 months in prison after pleading guilty to his altercation with the police.
In 15 games played and 14 for Cleveland starting in 2021, McDowell made 33 tackles, seven tackles for loss, five QB hits, three sacks and one fumble recovery.
McDowell will be a free agent at the start of the new league year in March.