DUI Incident Involving Ex-Georgia Player and Police Commentary on Carson Beck

Focus Keyword: Carson Beck DUI incident

In an intriguing turn of events, a recent DUI arrest involving former Baltimore Ravens lineman Ben Cleveland has resurfaced discussions around college football player compensation and attitudes. The incident, which occurred on February 12 in Milledgeville, Georgia, brought to light some pointed remarks from law enforcement concerning Cleveland’s ex-teammate, Carson Beck.

The Arrest

Ben Cleveland was pulled over by Baldwin County Sheriff’s officers for allegedly driving his black Ford F-250 erratically. During the traffic stop, officers suspected Cleveland was under the influence of alcohol as they awaited the arrival of an officer trained to administer a Breathalyzer test.

• Initial Conversation: As Cleveland identified himself as a member of the Ravens, he hinted at his impending free agency after finishing his rookie contract. He reminisced about his college days at the University of Georgia (UGA) where he played from 2016 to 2020, sharing the field with Carson Beck.

The Football Talk

While waiting, the officers and Cleveland engaged in a candid discussion about the impact of the NCAA’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies on current players.

• Cleveland’s Commentary: "These people make more money in the freakin’ NIL deals than I ever thought about making in the NFL," he stated, referring to the financial gains of players like Beck, who turned heads with lucrative off-the-field deals.

Police’s Response to Carson Beck

The police officer seized on this moment to deliver some unsolicited criticism about Beck, stating:

“That’s what hurt Carson this year: he was more worried about making money.”

This sentiment was echoed by Cleveland, who expressed his frustration, saying he could no longer bear to watch college football.

Officer Insights

• The officer highlighted the shift in college football’s culture, indicating that players seem more focused on profit than the game itself, a statement Cleveland agreed with.

Breathalyzer Results and Legal Consequences

After their conversation about college football, Cleveland reportedly blew a .178 on the Breathalyzer test and was subsequently arrested for DUI. A follow-up test at a nearby jail showed a BAC of .161. Cleveland faced charges not just for DUI but also for failure to maintain lane.

Verdict and Sentencing

Recent court records reveal that Cleveland pleaded guilty to the DUI charge:

• Sentencing Outcomes:
  • Probation
  • Community Service

Cleveland’s contract with the Ravens for the upcoming season amounts to $1.17 million, despite this legal turmoil.

Carson Beck’s Collegiate Transition

Carson Beck, who played at UGA from 2020 to 2024, made headlines recently for his transfer to the University of Miami just before the 2025 season. Throughout his collegiate career, Beck has capitalized on numerous brand deals, reportedly amassing millions in NIL income.

Current Performance

Beck has significantly contributed to the Miami Hurricanes, leading them to a 9-2 record this season, positioning them as the No. 13 team in the latest College Football Playoff rankings.

Conclusion

This incident not only casts a shadow over Cleveland’s career but has also sparked debate about the evolving landscape of college football compensation and player mindset. As the era of NIL continues to reshape the game, both veterans and newcomers face new challenges, highlighting the complexities of professional and collegiate athletics.

For a deeper understanding of the impact of NIL on college sports, consider exploring more about NIL policies and their implications on player development and dynamics.