Georgia Bulldogs stud running back Todd Gurley has been suspended by the school indefinitely as he is investigated for a possible violation of NCAA rules.
According to FOX Sports college football reporter Bruce Feldman, Gurley is being investigated for the same thing Johnny Manziel was popped for — memorabilia.
Hearing the investigation into #UGA star Todd Gurley is for possibly accepting extra benefits for his likeness w memorabilia brokers.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) October 9, 2014
Sports Illustrated later reported that a person confirmed to Georgia’s compliance office that he paid Gurley $400 to sign 80 items on campus during the spring.
Gurley was one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. The junior back has rushed for 773 yards and 8 touchdowns this season.
“I’m obviously very disappointed,” Georgia coach Mark Richt said in a statement. “The important thing for our team is to turn all our attention toward preparation for Missouri.”
Nate Fitch, who managed Manziel when the former Texas A&M quarterback was busted for the autograph scandal, tweeted some strong thoughts on the matter because he went through something similar.
Hey @slmandel tell the people to let the man make money off his name. Screw anyone that says he shouldn't and can't.
— Nate Fitch (@UNCLENATEFITCH) October 9, 2014
Hey @NCAA screw you. I hope Todd has good people around him that have his back. I hope nobody cooperates with you thugs.
— Nate Fitch (@UNCLENATEFITCH) October 9, 2014
If this story comes as a surprise to you, you probably missed a tip posted on Reddit less than two weeks ago. An autograph dealer said Gurley became too greedy with autographs and predicted this was coming.
