Titans rookie tackle Taylor Lewan closed the books on his court case Monday, when he got probation for his role in a bar fight in college.
But he said he knows the misdemeanor plea will follow him, and color the way others view him.
“There is no question it took a hit,’' Lewan said, via Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean. “And there is nothing I can do but do the probation, do what’s mandated of me, and do it correctly so that people say, “This guy had structure, and he followed the structure and did what he was supposed to do.
“But people are going to have their opinions, and the way I play on the field it is real easy for them to call me a dirtbag or scumbag and stuff like that, and that’s fine. But if you see me out on the street I am going to give you a smile, a handshake, and I am always going to be polite.”
Lewan’s guilty plea to drunk and disorderly was a step down from initial charges of misdemeanor aggravated assault and two charges of assault and battery. While he said he didn’t necessarily agree with pleading down, he said he thought it was better to be finished with the case rather than fight assault charges.
The former Michigan tackle insists he didn’t hit anyone in a confrontation with an Ohio State fan at a bar, and said he’s learned at least one lesson.
“I have become more of a pro because of this. I understand you are constantly being watched,’' he said. “And I understand you have to put yourself in a position to be successful.”
That part is true, and staying out of arguments with college rivals in a bar is a good second step, too.