Barkevious Mingo

The grand jury returned a “no bill,” clearing Mingo of all charges. Mingo was released from the Falcons in July when the accusations of the case first surfaced. The 31-year-old former sixth overall pick is unlikely to get another NFL chance, but this should help to restore his name.

The inevitable move comes after the Falcons spent Saturday gathering facts following Mingo's arrest on a charge of indecency with a child-sexual contact. "After being made aware today of allegations involving Barkevious Mingo and gathering information on the matter, the Atlanta Falcons have terminated his contract," the team said in a terse statement. Mingo could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted of this second degree felony. It is safe to say Mingo has played his final down of NFL football.  

Mingo reportedly posted bond in the disturbing case. The charges were filed in Tarrant County, Texas. Mingo's attorney in a statement denied the allegations. Mingo, 30, a former first round NFL Draft pick, signed a one-year contract with Atlanta in March after stints with Patriots, Colts, Seahawks, Texans, and Bears. “Our organization became aware of the allegations involving Barkevious Mingo today and are currently gathering information on this incident," the Falcons told ProFootballTalk in a statement. "The Falcons take the allegations very seriously and will continue to monitor the situation."

Mingo will likely serve as linebacker depth and a special teamer in Atlanta. The former first rounder played all 16 games for the Bears in 2020, recording 2.5 sacks and 35 tackles. Mingo, 30, has 12.5 sacks in eight NFL seasons.