Orson Charles, the former Georgia Bulldogs standout tight end, has signed with the Detroit Lions following a three-year absence from the NFL.
Thank you God for having a plan for me and leading me when I couldn't see the way. Philippians 4:13 pic.twitter.com/HTGtLaiHDk
— Orson Charles (@O_Charles80) June 16, 2016
Charles, now 25, last played in the league in 2013 with the Cincinnati Bengals. He signed after taking part in a minicamp with the Lions on a tryout basis, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Charles was a fourth-round draft pick with the Bengals in 2012, making six starts that year. He was released by the New Orleans after training camp last season. Legal troubles have also plagued him, with a DUI arrest prior to the draft and a charge of wanton endangerment in 2014, to which he plead guilty.
At UGA Charles was named All-SEC and a finalist for the John Mackey Award in 2011. The award is given to college football's most outstanding tight end.