Former Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen arrested on DUI charges

Police said former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen was arrested on charges of driving under the influence early Sunday morning. Thigpen last played in the NFL in 2012.

Police said former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen was arrested on charges of driving under the influence early Sunday morning, according to the Myrtle Beach Sun News.

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According to a police report, Thigpen was found asleep at the wheel at a Wendy's drive-thru in Myrtle Beach, S.C. When questioned by officers, Thigpen said he didn't know where he was or how he got there.

He refused three field sobriety tests and later refused a breathalyzer test after being taken to jail.

​Thigpen told the officers he hadn't consumed alcohol, though one officer said Thigpen smelled strongly of alcohol. He was released from jail Sunday afternoon.

Thigpen's attorney, Jonny McCoy, released the following statement to the Sun News:

“My client, Tyler Thigpen, is extremely cognizant of the gravity of the allegations against him,” McCoy said in an emailed statement. “My client and I look forward to this case taking the standard procedural avenues through our justice system with the same benefits and due process afforded to every other American citizen.”

The 30-year-old Thigpen played in the NFL from 2007-12, last appearing with the Buffalo Bills for two seasons. He was signed by the Browns this offseason but was cut in training camp.

Thigpen started 11 games for the Chiefs in 2008, throwing for 2,608 yards, 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Under the terms of the new NFL drug agreement implemented in September, a conviction or plea agreement for driving under the influence results in an automatic two-game suspension, meaning Thigpen would have to sit out two games if his case is adjudicated as such and he's signed by an NFL team.

Thigpen played collegiately at Coastal Carolina, located about 10 miles from Myrtle Beach.

- Ben Estes