The Indianapolis Colts waived outside linebacker Jonathan Newsome on Monday after he was arrested for possession of marijuana last week.
The 6-foot-3, 247-pound Newsome was drafted by the Colts in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He has played in 30 career games (three starts) and registered 61 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two passes defensed and three forced fumbles.
Newsome, 25, thanked head coach Chuck Pagano, general manager Ryan Grigson and owner Jim Irsay via Twitter following his release.
“I would like to thank Coach Pagano, Ryan Grigson, Jim Irsay and the entire Colts organization for the opportunity of a life time. … I learned alot during my time here in Indianapolis, becoming a better football player and person. I have made mistakes, but ive grown,” Newsome tweeted.
Newsome was arrested in Zionsville, Ind., on Feb. 17 for possession of marijuana. Police arrived at Newsome’s home after a caller complained about loud music and found marijuana. Newsome was arrested and taken to the Boone County Jail on two counts of possession of marijuana after he was observed with the drug.
On Jan. 31, police were called early in the morning to Newsome’s home for another loud music complaint and also found marijuana in the residence. A friend of Newsome’s was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana.
While in college at Ball State, Newsome was arrested for possession of marijuana and suspended for two games during the 2012 season.
As an NFL rookie in 2014, Newsome led the Colts with 6 1/2 sacks, but he managed just one sack last season.
The Colts also released outside linebacker Andy Studebaker.
The 6-3, 255-pound Studebaker, 30, was signed by the Colts as a free agent on Dec. 15. He has played in 97 career NFL games (nine starts) and recorded 70 tackles, 2.5 sacks, five passes defensed, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two interceptions and 68 special teams tackles.