Jags’ Dante Fowler Jr. arrested for battery

Jacksonville, FL — Jaguars’ Defensive End Dante Fowler has been arrested in St. Petersburg.

St. Petersburg Police confirm to WOKV that Fowler is charged with two misdemeanor counts- battery and criminal mischief. We’re told Fowler was driving in an apartment complex, when a man made a comment about his driving. Police say Fowler got out of his car, exchanged words with the victim, hit him, knocked off his glasses, and stepped on the glasses. Fowler then allegedly threw the victim’s grocery bag- which contained liquor- in to a lake.

The arrest affidavit says there was an “independent witness” who saw Fowler punch the victim.

Police say the victim was not injured. Fowler was arrested without further incident and booked in to the Pinellas County Jail.

In a statement to WOKV, the Jacksonville Jaguars say they are aware of the situation involving Fowler. We're told they are in touch with Fowler and are gathering more information, and will not be commenting any further at this point. This season will be the first for the team under new leadership, with new Head Coach Doug Marrone and the return of Tom Coughlin as Executive Vice President of Football Operations.

Pinellas County Jail records show Fowler was released on bond at 1:43 AM Wednesday.

Fowler was the Jags' first round draft pick in 2015, but was out his rookie season after tearing his ACL less than an hour in to the first rookie mini camp. This comes as the new crop of Jags rookies report today.

This is a developing story that will be updated as more information is available.