- Net worth
- Unknown
- Crimes
- drug trafficking, conspiracy
- Convicted of
- Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana
- Original sentence
- 30 months' imprisonment; 36 months' supervised release; $25,000 fine (August 15, 2002)
- Time served
- 30 months
Background
Nate Newton is a former offensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys who played in the NFL from 1986 to 1999. He won three Super Bowls with the Cowboys and was a two-time All-Pro player and six-time Pro Bowler.
The Case
Newton pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking charges after authorities discovered $10,000 in his red pickup truck and 175 pounds of marijuana in the trunk of an accompanying Monte Carlo driven by another man in December 2001. The marijuana seizure was valued at approximately $700,000. Six weeks earlier, while out on bail, Newton had been arrested for transporting 213 pounds of marijuana. When questioned about his repeat offense, Newton stated: "I've always been competitive...I couldn't see myself not being the biggest dope man."
Newton was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison in August 2002, along with three years of supervised release, a $25,000 fine, and 250 hours of community service. He faced up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
Drug trafficking operations like Newton's undermine public safety. Large-scale marijuana distribution networks sustain demand for illegal drugs and generate profits that often fund other criminal activities. The conduct harmed communities by facilitating drug distribution and normalizing illegal drug trafficking.
The Pardon
On February 12, 2026, President Trump granted Newton a full pardon. The pardon was announced by White House pardon czar Alice Marie Johnson. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones personally shared the news with Newton.