Former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar BUSTED for DRUNK DRIVING, speeding

Publish date: 2020-05-27

By Daily Mail Reporter

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Former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, who has battled an addiction to pain medications, was arrested on drunken driving charges in suburban Cleveland.

Kosar, 49, was speeding in Solon, Ohio at around 2.45am on Sunday morning, Cleveland.com says.  A strong smell of alcohol was also reportedly detected by officers. 

Kosar took sobriety tests and was taken to jail by police officers. He was alone in the car.

Kosar played quarterback for the Browns from 1985 to 1993, and established himself as the team's starter in his rookie season, Cleveland.com reports.

Bernie Kosar, seen here in this 2012 file photo, was been arrested on drunken driving charges in suburban Cleveland early on Sunday morning

Bernie Kosar, seen here in this 2012 file photo, was been arrested on drunken driving charges in suburban Cleveland early on Sunday morning

The website also reports that Cleveland got to the AFC Championship Game three times in four years with Kosar as quarterback. He made the Pro Bowl in the strike-shortened 1987 season.

In a 2009 interview with The Miami Herald, Kosar admitted 'there has been drinking and pain medication in his past.' At the time, Kosar said the only thing he is addicted to is football.

'Would my kids be living with me if that were really the case?' he said. 'If I did 10 percent of things I'm accused of, I'd be dead.'

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Kosar has publicly talked about how head injuries sustained during his NFL career have affected his speech, making him sometimes slur his words. Earlier this year, Kosar sought the help of Dr. Rick Sponaugle, who specializes in brain injuries, Cleveland.com reports.

Sponaugle has treated several NFL players and has been featured on ESPN.

Former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, seen here in 1986, has had difficulties in retirement, including divorce, bankruptcy, and health concerns

Former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, seen here in 1986, has had difficulties in retirement, including divorce, bankruptcy, and health concerns

Kosar reported suffering from insomnia, ringing in his ears and headaches for the better part of 10 years.

Kosar also faced other personal matters, including a divorce and filing for bankruptcy in June 2009.

The New York Daily News reports that Kosar was criticized this summer for comments he made as a broadcaster during the Browns' preseason game against the Rams on Aug. 8. He called Rams wide receiver Tavon Austin 'horrible.'

He also said 'Bless me Father for I have sinned. I have to watch him the whole fourth quarter' when backup quarterback Kellen Clemens entered the game.

The paper reports that Sports Illustrated's tweeted Peter King to say "Were you drinking?" in response to Kosar's comments. King later said he meant it as hyperbole.

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, seen here in this file photo, denied drug and alcohol addiction in a 2009 interview

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, seen here in this file photo, denied drug and alcohol addiction in a 2009 interview

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