Nebraska tight end Arik Gilbert, who recently transferred from Georgia, has found himself in legal trouble after being arrested on suspicion of burglary in Lincoln, Nebraska. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning when police received a report of a store break-in at SJ's Liquor and Vape Shop. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered a shattered glass door with large cement chunks from the parking lot. They also noticed Gilbert walking towards the exit, carrying a bag.

Upon further inspection, it was revealed that the bag contained stolen vape products, Delta 8, cigars, and lighters. The total value of the stolen items amounted to $1,672.07. Furthermore, police estimated that the damage caused to the business was approximately $650.

Lancaster County court records did not indicate whether Gilbert has obtained legal representation. The sophomore tight end from Marietta, Georgia, was a highly touted recruit, earning five-star status and being named the top-ranked tight end prospect. In 2019, he was honored as the Gatorade National Player of the Year.

Gilbert initially played for LSU, where he had a successful freshman season, starting in eight games and catching 35 passes for 368 yards. He was named to the All-SEC freshman team. After transferring to Georgia, Gilbert sat out the 2021 season and played in only three games last year, recording two receptions for 16 yards and a touchdown.

Nebraska coach Matt Rhule acknowledged that Gilbert had been dealing with personal issues, but did not provide specific details. Rhule expressed disappointment over the recent arrest, both for Gilbert and his family, as well as for the affected business owner. Rhule stated that the team would continue to support Gilbert as he works through these challenges.

This arrest adds further complications to Gilbert's already uncertain status with the team. Having already utilized his one-time transfer exemption, Gilbert requires a waiver from the NCAA to be eligible for the upcoming season. The Cornhuskers are scheduled to kick off their season on Thursday against Minnesota at 8 p.m. ET. The team's first-year head coach, Matt Rhule, did not reveal how this arrest would impact Gilbert's standing within the team.