Quarterback TJ Finley was suspended from the team indefinitely after being arrested on Thursday, April 3 due to possessing a stolen item above $25,000, with the charges being connected to a robbery of a car. 

Tulane University announced the suspension in a statement: “Due to federal laws governing student privacy, we will not disclose any additional information regarding the student, including information related to the disciplinary proceedings.”

In an interview today, head football coach Jon Sumrall reiterated their inability to disclose any information relating to Finley, while adding, “When things happen off the field it’s unfortunate, and I’ll let the statement stick for what it is. But when guys make mistakes they have to have accountability.” 

Shortly after, Finley took to Instagram, captioning his story, “Don’t believe everything you hear… I’ll be back.”

A sixth-year player transferred from the University of Western Kentucky, Finley was one of three transfer quarterbacks fighting for the coveted starting quarterback spot, alongside University of Illinois transfer Donovan Leary and Ball State University transfer Kadin Semonza. Just a few weeks ago, Sumrall was praising Finley for his experience and arm talent, and he was excelling in early practices. 

Without Finley, the quarterback competition will be narrowed down to Semonza and Leary. Tulane football may attempt to recruit another quarterback when the transfer portal reopens on April 16.