Minnesota Vikings cut ex-TCU star Jeff Gladney after family violence assault charge
Former TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney has been cut by the Minnesota Vikings, just hours after he was indicted by a grand jury in Dallas on a third-degree felony charge of family violence assault, according to court records. A trial date has not been set.
If convicted, Gladney faces two to 10 years in prison.
“Following our review of today’s indictment against Jeff Gladney, we have decided to release Jeff immediately,” the Vikings said in a statement. “As we have previously said, we take these matters very seriously and condemn all forms of domestic violence. Due to the ongoing legal nature of this matter, we are unable to provide further comment.”
Gladney’s agent Brian Overstreet issued a statement, saying Gladney is innocent and they looked forward to clearing his name.
“It’s a good thing that innocent until proven guilty still exists in this country,” Overstreet said. “Unfortunately, the Vikings don’t view it the same way.
“We received information that the complaining witness in this case came forward and requested the case not be prosecuted. The Vikings did what they thought was best for their organization which we respect, but we still strongly believe in Jeff Gladney’s innocence. We look forward to his day in court so that he can clear his name. At this time, out of respect for the legal process and all parties involved, Jeff and his representatives will have no further comments.”
Gladney allegedly assaulted a woman on April 2 in Dallas, and was arrested on April 5. The woman filed a civil lawsuit against Gladney last week, seeking at least $1 million in damages.
According to the civil suit, the woman alleges Gladney beat her for more than two hours on April 2 and then tried to bribe her in the weeks since to stay silent. Gladney allegedly bought a $1,000 necklace for the woman as well as a spa gift card.
Gladney was a first-round pick by the Vikings in 2020, and played in all 16 games for the Vikings last season, including 15 starts. He had 81 tackles, including seven tackles for loss, with three passes defended and one forced fumble.
Before starting his professional career, Gladney was an All-Big 12 player at TCU. He joined the Frogs after a standout high school career at New Boston.
This story was originally published August 3, 2021 at 11:15 AM.
