There’s a difference between playing fast and driving fast—and Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nolan Smith just learned that lesson the hard way. The 25-year-old was arrested Friday night in Georgia after authorities clocked him going 135 miles per hour on the interstate, a staggering 65 mph over the posted speed limit.
Smith, the 6’7″, 250-pound former Georgia Bulldog, was booked in Twiggs County on charges of speeding in excess of maximum limits and reckless driving. The arrest happened around 11 PM on a 70 mph highway, where Smith apparently decided the pedal was worth testing. He made bond within an hour and walked free, but the consequences don’t stop there—a court date is set for July, though he can settle the fines without showing up in person.
What’s particularly striking here isn’t just the speed itself, though 135 mph is genuinely dangerous. It’s the pattern. Smith joins a growing list of current and former Georgia Bulldogs who’ve had driving-related run-ins with the law in recent years. Whether it’s speeding or racing, there’s a concerning trend emerging from the program that goes beyond one player making one mistake.
That said, Smith’s professional résumé speaks for itself. He won a Super Bowl with the Eagles in 2025 and has racked up 10.5 sacks in three pro seasons—genuine accomplishments that make this arrest even more frustrating. He’s got the talent and the platform. The question now is whether he’s got the judgment to match.
About the Author
Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
