NFL legend Willie McGinest claimed he deeply regrets attacking a man at a restaurant and insisted the incident should never have happened.
The former New England Patriots outside linebacker was involved in an altercation at the Delilah restaurant in Los Angeles. In a horrifying video obtained by TMZ Sports, McGinest was seen punching a man in the face.
The 51-year-old, who was inducted into the Pats Hall of Fame in 2015, turned himself into local authorities on Monday and was charged with assault with a deadly weapon. McGinest eventually posted bail and was released shortly after.
McGinest also serves as an analyst for NFL Network but was later suspended from his role in the aftermath of the incident. He took to social media to post a statement apologising for his actions.
“First and foremost, I want to offer my deepest apology for my lapse in judgment and behaviour on December 9 at a restaurant in West Hollywood,” the New England Patriots legend said. “To my family, community, friends, and youth I mentor, please know I feel horrible for my actions and take full responsibility.
“To my colleagues at the NFL Network and those I work closely with as an advisor to professional and community-base organisations, please know I am embarrassed and regret what occurred. Most of all, I am disappointed in myself, as I know this is an isolated incident and is not reflective of my faith, role as a father, life's body of work, or the role model I've worked hard to become. It is personally devastating that decades of community service, youth engagement, mentoring, and professional development would become an afterthought in a single moment that should have never happened."
“This incident has prompted me to deep self-reflection - mind, soul, and spirit. I know that violence is never the answer to such situations, no matter how intense the provocation.
“Rest assured, I will take whatever steps necessary to restore the public trust, mend damaged relationships, and ensure this never happens again.”
A number of McGinest’s former teammates, including quarterback Tom Brady, sent messages of support with the seven-time Super Bowl champion leaving a red heart emoji.
