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It appeared as if things were beginning to look up for former Georgia Bulldogs superstar Jalen Carter.
Carter, once touted as the top prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft, fell all the way to pick No. 9 in the draft.
It wasn’t because of anything Carter did off the field. But rather due to a black cloud hanging over Carter regarding potential off-field concerns.
It all began with the tragic deaths of offensive lineman Devin Willock and staffer Chandler LeCroy just days after the Bulldogs won their second straight national championship.
Willock and LeCroy were victims of a car accident. It later came to light that LeCroy, who was driving the vehicle, had a blood alcohol level twice the legal limit.
But that wasn’t all.
Police later issued a warrant Carter’s arrests, claiming he was racing against LeCroy at the time of the crash. Carter pleaded no contest and was sentenced to probation, received a fine, and must do 80 hours community service.
That seemed to be the end of the tragic incident for the now Philadelphia Eagles rookie. But it appears that now may not be the case.
ESPN’s Harry Lyles Jr. reports that Willock’s father, Dave, is now suing the university. He’s also suing Carter as well as LeCroy’s estate.
The father of Devin Willock has filed a lawsuit against the University of Georgia Athletic Association, claiming the school’s athletic department should be held liable for the January car crash that killed the former Bulldogs offensive lineman and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy.
The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Gwinnett County, Georgia, also names former Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter, LeCroy’s estate and Athens strip club Toppers International Showbar, where the group had assembled before the crash, as defendants. – via ESPN
The lawsuit seeks $30 million from the defendants in compensatory damages. It also seeks an additional $10 million in punitive damages from Carter.
Dave Willock notified the university of his intent to sue last month. Though Willock’s mother, Sharlene, did not agree with his suit.
“Sharlene Willock entered a claim in Athens-Clarke County probate court in March to be the personal administrator. The letter filed to UGA said that discovery and mediation of the probate case are ongoing.
The letter does not clearly state that she intends to sue UGA, and an email to Willey was not immediately returned. But the letter indicates she would like the reserve the right to sue,” Seth Emerson of The Athletic reported at the time.
Sharlene Willock is not listed as part of the suit.