Judge gives ex-Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett approval to leave state, go to tryout

Clarett given OK to attend Omaha tryout

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Maurice Clarett is one step closer to returning to football.

Clarett received permission Wednesday to leave Ohio to try out for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He appeared before Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge David Fais.

Looking fit and relaxed in a gray suit, purple dress shirt and dark purple tie, the 26-year-old former Ohio State star did not speak in the courtroom. Ohio State coach Jim Tressel, however, sent a letter to Fais asking the judge to grant the request.

Clarett served 3½ years in prison for a hidden gun and holding up two people outside a bar.