Former NFL star tight end Vernon Davis broke his silence Friday night after allegations surfaced that he physically assaulted a pregnant ex last year during an argument about abortion.
A warrant for his arrest was filed Jan. 8 and he has a February court date, according to TMZ.
“I’m aware and saddened by the reporting and look forward to clearing my name,” Davis, 42, posted to his Instagram account. “For now. I’m staying focused on my life, my work, and the amazing people and partners who believe in and continue to support me. Your positivity means everything.”
Davis is accused in a criminal complaint filed Jan. 8 of hitting a pregnant ex with books and magazines during an alleged argument about her pregnancy at his home last May 31, per TMZ.
He purportedly also offered her $10,000, and the woman reportedly claimed that Davis stopped his alleged attack when she began recording him on her phone.
Davis, who played in the NFL from 2006-19, allegedly slapped the woman in the face on June 7 during another argument and told her “not to question him,” per TMZ.
He is alleged to have told her later in the night: “If I really slapped you, your face would be blue/black.”
The women’s complaint also mentioned a separate alleged physical incident with Davis that left her with bruises shortly before the May 31 situation and there is an open strangulation and assault case, per TMZ.
Davis’ Instagram account states he’s now an artist and film executive following a 14-year career with the 49ers, Broncos and now-Commanders.
He earned two Pro Bowl berths after being drafted by the 49ers with the No. 6 pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, and enjoyed his best season in 2009 when he caught 78 passes for 965 yards and 13 touchdowns for San Francisco.
He won a Super Bowl in 2015 with the Broncos.