Green Bay Packers CB Sam Shields charged for marijuana possession

GREEN BAY, Wis., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- The last time Sam Shields faced the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs, he made the play of the game against Dez Bryant.

This time Shields is shelved for the Green Bay Packers' NFL divisional round matchup at AT&T Stadium. Shields has been out since Week 1 after suffering another concussion. He was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia Thursday, after a three-month investigation by Wisconsin police.

The incident leading to the charges occurred on Oct. 19. Shields was put on injured reserve on Oct. 18.

"The Packers are aware of the matter involving Sam Shields," the team said in a statement to ESPN. "We will refrain from making any further comment as it is an ongoing legal matter.

Brown County Drug Task Force investigators went into Shields' Ashwaubenon home on Oct. 19 "on suspicions of drug-related activity associated with that residence based on parcel sent through the U.S. Mail," according to the police report obtained by WBAY.

Shields allegedly opened the door carrying a cell phone and a blunt, according to the report. He allowed the investigators to search, before showing police more marijuana inside the home. The search yielded more marijuana, including candy and muffins that tested positive for the presence of THC.

Shields' legal team pleaded not guilty Friday morning and a judge ordered a $500 signature bond.

The 29-year-old is due $8 million next season in the final year of his four-year, $39 million contract. Shields had three tackles in his only game this season. In 2015, he had 39 tackles and three interceptions, while defending 13 passes.

Shields is scheduled for a hearing on the matter on April 24.