As the 2026 NFL Draft draws nearer, Miami Hurricanes edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. remains highly-regarded despite an ongoing investigation surrounding an unfortunate 2024 incident that resulted in one person dying and subsequent media attention on this case. Once projected as a top pick by many teams due to an incident that recently gained renewed public scrutiny; despite that scrutiny from multiple franchises such as Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys who continue evaluating Bain for potential impact at professional levels.
Bain was charged with careless driving following an accident that left one of his passengers, an 18-year-old student from Miami, in a coma and tragically passed away three months after. NFL organizations are aware of this situation and conducting independent inquiries into it.
Despite concerns, many NFL insiders report that most teams have been satisfied with Bain’s explanation of the matter and consider the issue resolved or manageable. This perspective may lessen the long-term effect on his draft status.
The Kansas City Chiefs have shown particular interest in adding Bain to their roster as they look to bolster their pass rush. His visit with the team’s representatives has fueled speculation that he could be a top 10 selection in the upcoming draft. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have also expressed interest in Bain as they seek to strengthen their defensive lineup. Reports suggest he is among players under consideration in potential trade-up scenarios.
If the Cowboys acquire Bain, alongside other key outside linebackers, they would add a formidable rusher known for his quick first step and relentless effort on the field.
In the 2025 season, Bain recorded notable statistics including 54 tackles and 9.5 sacks. His performance earned him the Ted Hendricks Award, Consensus All-American honors, and ACC Defensive Player of the Year recognition. While there have been some questions about his arm length, his production and flexibility along the defensive front make him an appealing prospect. However, how the investigation into the driving incident might affect his draft stock remains uncertain.
Details of Rueben Bain Jr.’s Driving Incident
The accident occurred on March 17, 2024, when Bain was driving on Interstate 95 in South Florida shortly after 4 a.m. He rear-ended another vehicle, causing his 2021 Land Rover to collide with the concrete wall on the east side of the highway, then cross several lanes before hitting the west side wall again.
One of the passengers, Destiny Betts, a 22-year-old university student from Georgia visiting Miami during spring break, suffered severe injuries and was hospitalized in a coma for nearly three months before her death on June 13, 2024. Another passenger was also admitted to the hospital. Two University of Miami teammates, linebacker Wesley Bissainthe and Nyjalik Kelly (who later transferred to UCF), were also in the vehicle and are eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft.
The police report accused Bain of operating his vehicle in a careless or negligent manner, leading to the citation for careless driving. That charge was dismissed approximately two weeks prior to Betts’ passing.
Bain was charged again with careless driving in October 2025 while operating his 2025 Tesla Cybertruck; this case was later dismissed due to defective citation.
As it stands now, NFL teams and league officials continue to evaluate any possible implications moving forward.