Chad Wheeler’s former college roommate says he “will never forgive” the ex-Seattle Seahawk for his alleged attack on his girlfriend over the weekend.
“Chad Wheeler is someone completely different than my roommate and brother at SC, and today I had to come to terms with that,” Pittsburgh Steelers player Zach Banner tweeted Wednesday. “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.
Both men played college football at the University of Southern California before being drafted to the NFL.
Wheeler, 27, 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.
An arrest report obtained by the outlet says he wasn’t taking his medication for his bipolar disorder at the time.
The former Seattle Seahawk offensive tackle said in a series of tweets Wednesday that he’s stepping away from the sport to get the help he needs.
“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,” Wheeler wrote.
“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,” he added.
