i think when it comes to relationships it's nice to hear what friends have to say however we must always make our own judgements because who knows if that person is right for us or not until you try things out right? It's nice that your friends are looking out for you however remember that you should talk to him like a normal person and try and make your own judgements on the person he is and what he is actually like.
If you want to go out with him make sure you are sure it's what you want and that you are making the right decision for yourself because sometimes we have to think about things. Unless you want to take the risk and take the chance and go with the flow you never know you could end up happy.
One thing you have to remember in life we have one chance to live it so why not do things and try different things and see where it leads us to and we do learn from our past mistakes.
Your friends are just showing that they want you to know what he's like however they could be rumours so you have to make your own judgements as to whether or not you decide listen to what they have said, or whether you give yourself the chance to really get to know him and make your own judgement.