If Taylor Lewan is the definition of a “Michigan Man” than perhaps the University of Michigan needs to re-think that catch-phrase. Lewan, projected as a top ten overall NFL Draft pick this May has been charged with one count of aggravated assault and two counts of assault and battery for an incident that took place in Ann Arbor after his Michigan Wolverines lost an exciting nail biter to their arch-rival Ohio State in the final regular season game of Lewan’s career.
“Two Buckeyes fans are the ones accusing Lewan, who told reporters at the NFL combine that the allegations were false. Taylor Lewan is scheduled to be arraigned at 9 a.m. on April 8.”
Lewan was asked about this at the NFL Scouting combine. He denied any wrongdoing. He was also asked at the combine about his involvement in the rape case against former teammate Brendan Gibbons. Lewan also denied any malfeasance there. But it’s a major issue, as the Federal government itself is in the midst of a very in-depth investigation against the school. Here’s a more in-depth look at the investigation.
A quick excerpt:
Shortly after the woman reported the rape, she began to receive threats from Gibbons roommate and fellow football player, Taylor Lewan (now an All-American), that he would rape her again if she pressed charges against Gibbons.
Both incidents, but more so this one as this is an event in which he’s actually charged with something, could seriously affect Taylor Lewan’s NFL Draft stock. I moved him down in my mock draft before this. Now I may move him down even more.
Paul M. Banks owns The Sports Bank.net, an affiliate of Fox Sports. An MBA and Fulbright scholar, he’s also a frequent analyst on multiple news talk radio stations. The former NBC Chicago and Washington Times contributor has also been featured on the History Channel.