By Nathan Hardin
nhardin@salisburypost.com
The Carolina Panthers released rookie linebacker Lawrence Wilson today, five days after he was cited for marijuana possession in Rowan County.
According to ESPN.com, the Panthers’ general manager said after the release, “It’s clear how we feel about the behavior and the light it sheds on the organization.”
The Post reported on Nov. 3 that Rowan County deputies stopped Wilson — a sixth-round pick and practice squad player — on Interstate 85 near the Innes Street intersection at about 4:20 p.m. Wednesday afternoon.
Deputy Patrick Jones reported that he stopped Wilson when he clocked his 2006 Infiniti for going 76 mph in a 65 mph-zone.
The officer smelled the odor of marijuana on Wilson, the report said, and asked him to place his hands behind his back.
Wilson began tensing up, the report said, and “would not comply” with instructions.
Jones reported that Wilson told him he “had a break from his job” and was on his way to Virginia during the Panthers bye week.
Deputies searched the 23-year-old’s car and seized 11 grams, or .39 ounces, of marijuana, the report said.
The report said the University of Connecticut alumni then began crying and asked what the arrest would do to his career.
Wilson was released from custody after being cited for possession of marijuana and speeding.