Hawks' Hill arrested, faces drug charge

Updated: January 24, 2009, 9:32 PM ET

By Mike Sando | ESPN.com

Seattle Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill faces a misdemeanor charge for marijuana possession after authorities found him passed out behind the wheel at an intersection in suburban Atlanta, according to authorities.

Hill

Hill, 26, is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent Feb. 27.

A third-round choice from Clemson in 2005, Hill has led the Seahawks in tackles or tied for the lead five times in seven playoff games. He started Super Bowl XL as a rookie and has started 50 regular-season games in four NFL seasons, all with Seattle.

Hill, arrested at around 4 a.m. Saturday, posted $1,500 bond and was released, Douglas County Sheriff Sgt. Dwayne Taylor said.

"He was at an intersection passed out behind the wheel," Taylor said. "The deputies conducted an investigation and found two bags of marijuana in the car."

Authorities also cited Hill for having a faulty taillight. They did not test Hill for driving under the influence of alcohol, Taylor said.

Hill is the highest-profile Seahawks player scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell recently told reporters the team would consider naming Hill its franchise player.

"All options will be open," Ruskell said. "Obviously, we are starting talks again with his agent. Our priority is to have him back on the team."

Mike Sando covers the NFC West for ESPN.com.