The Rutgers Scarlet Knights (3-0) have gotten off to a good start on the field this season but some off-field activities have landed two of their players in hot water.
As first reported by NJ Advanced Media, Rutgers cornerbacks Max Melton and Chris Long have been charged by police with aggravated assault and possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose following a “paintball gun incident” on Monday night.
Following that, they were both suspended from the team for an indeterminant amount of time and head coach Greg Schiano released a statement.
“I was informed that Chris Long and Malachi Melton were taken into police custody early this morning as a result of an incident involving a paintball gun,” Schiano said. “Both players have been suspended immediately.”
Details about the specific incident and what happened on Monday remain unknown. Rutgers Police haven’t responded to an OPRA filing by NJ Advance Media yet.
Not having Melton on the field is a big deal for the Scarlet Knights. As one of the team’s starting corners, he has two interceptions, a blocked punt, a fumble recovery, and eight tackles this season. He also returned an interception for a touchdown against Temple in the season opener. Long, meanwhile, has not played this season so far.
It’s bad timing for Rutgers as they’ll be put to the test this weekend against No. 19 Michigan. Rutgers has traditionally gotten manhandled by the Wolverines but considering they’re off to their best start since 2012 there is hope they can compete this time around. If so, they’ll have to do it without one of their top defensive talents.
