Athens — Jeremy Lomax made a mistake and is the first to admit it.

"It was a big misunderstanding," the Georgia defensive end said.

That misunderstanding landed Lomax in Athens-Clarke County Jail Wednesday morning. The senior was arrested and jailed for carrying a concealed weapon and speeding at 12:42 a.m.

Lomax was clocked doing 80 mph in a 55-mph zone on Loop 10, the police report stated. After pulling Lomax over, the police asked if there were weapons in the vehicle.

Lomax said there was an unloaded handgun under the driver's seat. The police searched the vehicle and found a Glock 40. Lomax was arrested and taken to jail. He posted a $3,000 bond and was released at 1:30 a.m.

"I thought you could have a gun without a clip in it in the car," Lomax said. "But the Georgia law says it has to be in the glove compartment and can't be under the seat."

Lomax called Athens-Clarke County police later Wednesday to explain the situation again and apologize.

"They were just doing their job," Lomax said. "I am not mad or upset with them. It was just my mistake. I thought one thing and it was another. I am mainly just frustrated with myself."

Lomax said he had the gun because he considers some of the places he travels through between Athens and his home in Jonesboro as unsafe.

According to Georgia law, had the unloaded gun been almost anywhere in the car but under his seat Lomax would not have been in violation. The law is also about to change. New firearm legislation has passed that states: "Drivers eligible for a gun permit also would be able to carry a loaded firearm anywhere they want in their car."

None of that matters to Lomax now.

"I am probably going to sell it," Lomax said. "I just want to get my name cleared."

According to the police report, Lomax was asked if he had a permit to carry a concealed weapon. He said no, but that he was going to get one, and reiterated that.

The university will most likely not weigh in because the weapon was not on campus. Lomax was to meet with Georgia coach Mark Richt on Wednesday night.

"I hope he makes me run [as punishment]," Lomax said. "I could use it, too. Stay in shape."

Lomax, who played in 11 games last season, was battling for a starting spot in spring practice. The 6-foot-4, 247-pounder has had an injury-plagued career, but was healthy throughout spring.

Typically, Richt waits several days or even weeks before announcing punishment or suspension of a player.

Lomax is the fourth Georgia player arrested this offseason. Fullback Fred Munzenmaier and defensive back Donavon Baldwin were arrested in January and suspended. Munzenmaier will miss the first two games; Baldwin is out for the first game. Offensive lineman Clint Boling was arrested for driving under the influence. He is fighting the charge and has not yet been suspended.