One of the top edge rushing prospects in this year's NFL Draft is coming in with some baggage. But will it be enough to scare off interested teams around the league?
According to records obtained by The Read Optional, projected top-10 pick Rueben Bain Jr. was involved in a fatal car accident back in 2024 that led to the death of 22-year-old Destiny Betts and the hospitalization of another passenger.
The police report cited that the Hurricanes pass rusher "operated his vehicle in a careless or negligent manner" and resulted in a careless driving charge. However, that charge was later dismissed with no field sobriety test administered at the time of the crash.
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NFL GM responds to 'troubling' Rueben Bain Jr. report
The story recently coming back to light has led to questions about Bain's draft position just 10 days out from the event. But updates from football reporters Andrew Siciliano and Ian Rapoport appear to provide a window into how franchises are feeling about the former Miami star and his character.
Per Siciliano, Lions general manager Brad Holmes responded to this weekend's Rueben Bain report by saying, "We've know that for a while, so that doesn't really change anything from our standpoint." With Rapoport adding that "this is the general sentiment" around the league.
Family of accident victim releases statement on report, Rueben Bain
In a statement provided to The Read Optional, the family of Destiny Betts shared that their daughter's passing "was the result of a tragic accident" and that they're "not seeking public attention surrounding this tragedy."
"As her family, we remain deeply committed to honoring her memory in a meaningful and appropriate way," the statement read. "Destiny's passing was the result of a tragic accident that occurred several years ago. While the loss remains incredibly painful for our family, we have worked hard to find peace and move forward."
"At this time, we are not seeking public attention surrounding this tragedy and respectfully request that our family's privacy be honored. We also wish Mr. Bain the best as he continues his life and career."
NFL teams typically know the backgrounds of everyone they choose to invest in — especially from a draft standpoint. Now we'll just have to wait and see how Bain's past potentially affects his future come April 23.
