NFL’s Driving Issues: A Disturbing Trend

Years ago, long before DUI was softened to “driving under the influence,” Dan Marino enjoyed his fair share of drinks. He was a quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, after all, and life in South Florida was lively. But Marino recognized the gravity of a DUI charge—it could tarnish his reputation and standing in the community. So, he made a smart move: he hired a limousine and a driver.

This driver just so happened to be the father of future NFL star and current Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan. He ensured that Marino, the occasionally-inclined-to-drink quarterback, never found himself in legal trouble on the roads.

It seems the NFL could definitely use more of Marino’s foresight these days. Recent events imply the league faces some troubling trends concerning its players and their driving habits.

Take a look at what’s unfolded just this month:

• On July 22, Los Angeles Chargers security guard Ben Cleveland was arrested for speeding and driving without a license, following a 2021 DUI arrest.
• Then, on July 23, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current CBS NFL analyst Tony Romo faced OWI charges in Wisconsin, including endangering public safety and refusing a breathalyzer test. He’s got a hearing lined up for September 21.
• News broke on July 25 about San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan, who suffered serious injuries in a head-on collision. He admitted to losing control of his vehicle after dropping his cell phone.
• Lastly, on July 28, Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander faced a suspension after pleading guilty to a DWI, along with community service and a two-year probation period.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Recently, the Washington Commanders parted ways with tight ends coach Ben Steele following a DWI arrest in June.

General manager Adam Peters commented, “We wish Ben and his family all the best. It was a tough decision, and while disappointing, we hope for a positive outcome for him.”

Earlier, reports surfaced about University of Miami defensive lineman Reuben Bain Jr., charged with reckless driving after a crash in October 2025, which tragically left one passenger dead. Although Bain was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he slipped to the 15th overall pick due to these issues.

Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs receiver Lachee Rice faced prison time for similar reckless behavior. He completed 30 days in jail related to a high-speed crash that had serious consequences.

Fox News Digital has gathered records showing 21 traffic incidents involving NFL personnel since 2024, with issues ranging from drunk driving to reckless behavior. On average, more than one accident per month among NFL staff—excluding family—sounds alarm bells.

While NFL officials have yet to comment on this issue, they highlight that clubs remind players to avoid drinking and driving—something they likely already know. Some teams even connect players through ride-sharing or suggest they reach out to security if they need help getting home safely.

However, alcohol isn’t always the main factor; in Shanahan’s case, for example, it was a distraction that led to a serious crash. It appears there’s much that today’s NFL drivers could learn from Dan Marino’s example.