Former Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Chad Wheeler announced Wednesday he’s stepping away from football after being accused of choking his girlfriend.
“Events [that] happened over the weekend that transpired from a manic episode. I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused to Alleah and her family,” Wheeler tweeted, referring to his girlfriend.
Wheeler, a backup offensive tackle who played for the Giants from 2017 to 2019, then added in the tweet thread: “I apologize profusely for the turmoil that I have caused to my family, teammates, fans and those closest to me. The most important thing right now is that Alleah gets the care she needs and I get help. Both are happening.”
He finally added, in a third tweet: “It is time for me to walk away from football and get the help I need to never again pose a threat to another. I cannot express my sorrow or remorse enough. I am truly ashamed.”
The football star was arrested Saturday on suspicion of felony domestic violence after his girlfriend, whose full name has not been released, told the police he assaulted her at an apartment in Kent, Washington, the Seattle Times reported.
A police report obtained by the outlet says Wheeler stopped taking his medication for his bipolar disorder.
King County prosecutors charged him with first-degree domestic violence assault, domestic violence unlawful imprisonment and resisting arrest.
Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Zach Banner said he “will never forgive” his former roommate at the University of Southern California for the alleged crime.
“Chad Wheeler is someone completely different than my roommate and brother at SC, and today I had to come to terms with that,” Banner tweeted. “What he did was heartbreaking, and I will never forgive.”
“My thoughts, and prayers go out to the victim. She and her health should be the upmost priority,” he continued.
The Seahawks strongly condemned the alleged assault and said Wheeler was no longer with the team.
“The Seahawks are saddened by the details emerging against Chad Wheeler and strongly condemn this act of domestic violence. Our thoughts and support are with the victim,” the team said in a statement Wednesday.
Wheeler is expected to be arraigned on Feb. 9.