Odell Thurman

Linebacker Odell Thurman played in the National Football League with the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2005 season. Thurman has been suspended indefinitely from the league for off-field issues since 2008.

On March 23, 2009, prosecutors dropped charges assault against Thurman stemming from a 2008 incident. An Ohio man claimed Thurman punched him, breaking his jaw at an indoor waterpark. The case was dismissed as prosecutors did not have enough time to investigate fully.ESPN.com: Former LB's Assault Case Dismissed

Thurman was drafted in the second round of the 2005 NFL draft as the 48th pick overall. He had a big impact on the Bengals defense during his rookie season, recording five interceptions and was in the running for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Thurman was suspended for the first four games of the 2006 season for violations of the NFL substance abuse policy. His suspension was later extended to the entire 2006 season after being arrested for DUI. Thurman pleaded no contest to drunk driving charges and underwent treatment for alcohol abuse. Although he applied for reinstatement for the 2007 season, his request was denied, and Thurman missed his second season in a row. On April 21, 2008, Thurman was reinstated by the NFL and has returned to the Cincinnati Bengals. He was however cut by the team before the season began.

• Mahalo's Guide to the Cincinnati Bengals
• NFL.com: Career Stats
  • Height: 6'
  • Weight: 235
  • Rookie Year: 2005

• July 9, 1983: Born in Monitcello, Georgia

• 2005: Drafted by Cincinnati Bengals

• 2006: Arrested for drunk driving, suspended for entire season

• 2007: Reinstatement denied by NFL, misses whole season

• 2008: Reinstated to the NFL

• • Bengals to Odell: 'Never Say Never'
• Deadspin: Watch, As Odell Thurman's Career Evaporates
• Topix: Odell Thurman Forums