CHAD Wheeler’s NFL career came to an abrupt stop when he was charged with domestic violence and unlawful imprisonment.
Due to his controversial arrest, the Seattle Seahawks dismissed him from the team.
Born on January 19, 1994, Chad Wheeler is an American retired football player from Santa Monica, California.
After Wheeler graduated from the University of Southern California, he was not immediately drafted by the NFL.
At the time, he suffered a series of injuries that prevented him from playing.
On April 30, 2017, the New York Giants signed Wheeler as an undrafted free agent and made his league debut on October 1 of the same year.
On September 9, 2019, the Giants waived him from the team.
By October 15 of the same year, the offensive tackle was signed by the Seattle Seahawks.
On January 27, 2021, the Seahawks announced they waived Wheeler from the team.
“Chad is a free agent and no longer with the team,” they revealed via Twitter.
“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. We encourage Chad to get the help he needs.”
On January 23, 2021, Wheeler was arrested in Kent, Washington, for a domestic violence incident involving his ex-girlfriend Alleah Taylor.
He was taken into custody and charged with three counts of felony domestic violence and one count of unlawful imprisonment.
Regarding the abovementioned charges, the former offensive tackle pleaded not guilty.
In a statement, he said: “Events happened over the weekend that transpired from a manic episode.
“I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused to [the woman] and her family.
“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 [the woman] gets the care she needs and I get help. Both are happening.
“It is time for me to walk away from football and get the help I need to never again pose a threat to another.”
Wheeler further shared: “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.”
On November 9, 2023, Wheeler was found guilty of both first-degree and second-degree domestic violence assault.
Ultimately, the one count of false imprisonment against him was dismissed.
