A former NFL running back and Super Bowl champion is making headlines, but this time for all the wrong reasons. Wendell Smallwood Jr., who played in the NFL from 2016 to 2021 and helped the Philadelphia Eagles secure a Super Bowl victory in 2018, is facing serious legal challenges. Accused of defrauding COVID-19 relief programs, Smallwood could potentially spend up to 50 years in prison if convicted.
Smallwood’s football career began at West Virginia University before being selected in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Over his career, he played for the Eagles, Washington, Pittsburgh, and Jacksonville, amassing 956 rushing yards, 474 receiving yards, 401 return yards, and eight touchdowns. However, his athletic achievements are now overshadowed by the allegations against him.
According to federal prosecutors, Smallwood allegedly engaged in a scheme to defraud government relief programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. He is accused of submitting false applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds using defunct or newly registered businesses. The allegations extend to a kickback conspiracy and lying to tax authorities, as outlined in court documents.
If found guilty, Smallwood could face half a century behind bars, remaining incarcerated until his 80s. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of financial fraud, with the IRS and federal authorities maintaining a vigilant watch.
