Daniel Paulling

The Clarion-Ledger

OXFORD - Defensive tackle Breeland Speaks was arrested shortly after midnight Friday morning on suspicion of DUI (first offense) and was bailed out at 7:05 a.m., according to the Lafayette County Detention Center’s booking log.

The Callaway graduate, 20, appeared in all 13 games for the Rebels last season, collecting 32 tackles (5.5 tackles for loss) and one sack after redshirting the 2014 season.

“Breeland’s poor choice does not meet the expectations of our program, and there will be consequences,” coach Hugh Freeze said in a statement. “He and I have spoken, and he is very disappointed in himself and will accept whatever punishment that is handed down.

“We are very thankful he is safe and that this was not a life-altering decision. In these situations, we hope our young men learn from their mistakes and do not let the mistake define them.”

Neal McCready of RebelGrove.com first reported the news.

The redshirt sophomore practiced with the first team during a spring practice that was open to the media Thursday, suggesting he’s first in line to replace star defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche. Nkemdiche declared early for the NFL draft after three seasons at Ole Miss.

The 6-foot-3, 313-pound Speaks, a former four-star recruit, signed with Ole Miss in 2014 as the No. 17 defensive tackle and No. 193 player overall, according to 247Sports’ Composite Rating. He chose the Rebels over Arkansas, Florida State, LSU and Mississippi State, among others.

Speaks was named to The Clarion-Ledger’s Dandy Dozen his senior season, when he posted 118 tackles (26.5 tackles for loss), nine sacks, 18 quarterback hurries and five pass breakups. He helped Callaway win a school-record 14 games and reach the Class 5A state semifinals.

Contact Daniel Paulling at dpaulling@jackson.gannett.com. Follow @DanielPaulling on Twitter.