Now-ex UGA football player arrested after stepping away from team

ATHENS, Ga. — Just hours after posting on social media that he was stepping away from football, a now-former University of Georgia player was arrested.

Xzavier McLeod was booked into the Athens-Clarke County Detention Center on Wednesday afternoon and charged with misdemeanor trespass - damage to property.

The junior defensive lineman was released on bond just after 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, according to jail records.

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“After considerable thought and seeking guidance from my faith, I have decided to step away from football to prioritize my personal well-being,” he posted in a statement on Instagram earlier on Wednesday.

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McLeod says he believes the decision is in his best interest, but that he is sad to close this chapter of his life.

“Although I’m no longer on the team, my heart will always remain with the Bulldogs,” he wrote.

Channel 2 Action News is working to learn what led up to McLeod’s charge.

UGA Athletics told Channel 2 Action News that they have no further comment on McLeod.

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