Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard was charged with third-degree felony assault of a police officer Monday and could face up to five years in prison and $10,000 fine if convicted.
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Police said Dennard struck an officer during an altercation outside of a Lincoln. Neb., bar early Saturday morning.
Dennard was dressed in a dark blue jail jumpsuit Monday during a hearing that lasted about a minute. He remained in Lancaster County Jail as of mid-afternoon Monday. He must pay $500 to be released.
Dennard, an All-Big Ten Conference player, had been pegged as a second- or third-round pick in this week's NFL draft. NFL.com draft analyst Gil Brandt has Dennard ranked 67th on his list of top 100 prospects.
Brandt said Dennard's arrest could drop him as far as the fourth round, a difference that could cost him about $300,000 in salary over a standard four-year rookie contract.
Dennard's next court appearance is scheduled for May 15.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.