Rolando McClain, in case you’re unaware, is a professional athlete who plays for the NFL’s Oakland Raiders. McClain was very recently arrested for allegedly holding a gun to the side of someone’s head and discharging the weapon next to the person’s ear. Whenever a professional athlete makes the news in such a manner, the reaction, especially in today’s age of instant communication, is swift.

In McClain’s case, however, his newfound Internet fame is owed just as much, if not more, to the amazing image that resulted of his apprehension than the alleged crime.

The image, and the details of the crime, were recorded at the SFGate’s Oakland Raiders section, and the article in question has a high resolution version of the image in question. It’s definitely worth the click.

Needless to say, McClain’s inopportune grin has caused a level of viral popularity for the linebacker, especially in the land of Twitter, where McClain was clowned, scolded, and even complimented for his choice in arrest photos. While his mugshot photos weren’t nearly as fun as the arrest image was, they, too hit the sports blogs because of the subject matter.

Others were less impressed. In fact, Peter King seems downright offended:

Others took the time to educate the masses concerning Alabama’s liberal approach to gunplay:

As long as the bullet doesn’t penetrate anyone, it’s all good in Alabama, apparently. The fan reaction was split between support and admonishment:

As for McClain, he apparently hasn’t returned to Oakland as of this time. His lawyer is, of course, maintaining his client’s innocence.