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Georgia tailback Todd Gurley was suspended indefinitely Thursday afternoon after reports surfaced that the NCAA was investigating possible violations of NCAA rules.
Multiple media reports confirmed Thursday evening that the probe was regarding Gurley receiving money for his autograph and the use of his likeness.
SI.com‘s Andy Staples has learned that a person confirmed to the University of Georgia compliance office this week that he paid the Heisman Trophy candidate $400 to sign 80 items in Athens, Ga., this spring. According to Staples, the person claimed to have both photo and video evidence of Gurley signing memorabilia, though the video showed no exchanging of money.
NCAA rules dictate that an institution immediately declare a player ineligible if they discover a violation has been committed. Schools may then reapply for the player’s reinstatement.
ESPN’s Darren Rovell reports that a search of records from prominent memorabilia authenticator James Spence Authentication reveals 250 signed Gurley jerseys in a row.
A search of records from noted autograph authenticator JSA reveals 250 signed Gurley jerseys in a row.
— darren rovell (@darrenrovell) October 9, 2014
There are conflicting reports surrounding the number of pieces Gurley signed, but the $400 fee has been confirmed.
According to Staples, the JSA database revealed 90 consecutively numbered pieces, as well as another lot of 20 consecutively numbered pieces. Consecutive authentication numbers suggests the items were submitted following a large-scale signing, which is the case regarding the investigation surrounding Gurley.
After living in Birmingham, Ala., Jordan left the ground zero of SEC Nation to head south to Florida to tell the unique stories of the renowned tradition of SEC football. In his free time, his mission is to find the best locales around.
