Former Ohio State star and Denver Broncos running back Maurice Clarett signed with with the UFL's Omaha Nighthawks, the team announced Monday. The former college standout is getting another chance to play professional football after being out of the game since 2005.
"I am humbled by the opportunity the Omaha Nighthawks have given me and will dedicate myself on and off the field to prove that I can be a valuable member of the team and the Omaha community," Clarett said in a press release. "I am committed to working hard to earn the right for a second chance in football and more importantly in life."
Clarett, who helped the Buckeyes win a National Championship during the 2002 season, sat out 2004 after challenging the NCAA eligibility rule. The Denver Broncos then gave the running back a shot when they drafted him in 2005, but Denver cut Clarett before the regular season started.
It all went downhill for Clarett thereafter. He served 3 1/2 years in prison on gun and robbery charges, and was just recently released from an Ohio halfway house.
Clarett received special permission from an Ohio judge to work out with the Nighthawks on Sunday. Former Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist is the Nighthawks' director of player personnel, and Omaha's roster also boasts former NFL standouts Jeff Garcia and Ahman Green.
UFL Commissioner Michael Huygue added in the Nighthawks' press release: "I met with Maurice Clarett [Monday] and additionally reviewed all of the reports surrounding his circumstances. I support allowing his return to football and believe he will make the most of this opportunity with the Omaha Nighthawks."
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