ESPN - Sports Memorabilia dealer hires lawyer, allegedly paid Bulldogs RB

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"I'm obviously very disappointed," said UGA head football coach Mark Richt.

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SI.com has learned that a person confirmed to Georgia’s compliance office this week that he paid Gurley $400 to sign 80 items on campus in Athens, Ga., one day this past spring. The person claimed to have a photo and video of Gurley signing the items, but neither the photo nor the video showed money changing hands. NCAA rules require schools to immediately declare a player ineligible if they discover a violation has been committed. Schools may then apply for the player’s reinstatement. Reached by text message on Thursday afternoon, Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity declined comment.

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I have video of Todd Gurley doing a private autograph signing ***. He has been paid thousands of dollars for his stuff over the last 18 months. I personally paid him for this signing on the video. I have bought and sold game used equipment from him.

I want no compensation. Just want someone to leak this story that's deserving. If you have any interest, give me a call or email. I attached a photo of him in my car signing a mini helmet that I just sold last week on my eBay store.

All I ask is some privacy until we can touch base.

I live on Georgia and would crucified if my name was released.

The video is about 5 minutes long but doesn't show the money exchange.

My cell is **********

I believe this would be the lead story on sports center if ESPN got their hands on this. Hope to hear from you soon.

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@darrenrovell: A search of records from noted autograph authenticator JSA reveals 250 signed Gurley jerseys in a row.

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@darrenrovell: Source: Gurley was looking for $8 to $25 a signature. Would accept less if he signed more pieces.

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@darrenrovell: Update: Authentication company JSA authenticated at least 500 Gurley signatures (300+ jerseys, 70+ photos, 30+ mini helmets)

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A person familiar with the investigation of the possible violations by Georgia running back Todd Gurley told the AJC on Friday that it’s a “significant” case of the sale of memorabilia and there is a possibility that Gurley may not be cleared to return to the field this season.

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A Georgia man who allegedly paid suspended University of Georgia Bulldogs running back Todd Gurley to autograph sports memorabilia has hired a high-profile Atlanta attorney.

Ed Garland, who has represented former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, former NHL all-star Dany Heatley and rapper T.I. in high-profile criminal cases, told ESPN.com on Friday that he has been retained by Bryan Allen, a sports memorabilia dealer whose relationship with Gurley is being investigated by UGA officials.

"I do represent Bryan Allen," Garland said. "He's not going to be making any statements. Really, I have nothing else to say."

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