Seattle Seahawks helmet KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – DECEMBER 24: A Seattle Seahawks helmet sits on the bench during their game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on December 24, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images)


A former NFL player is set to spend close to the next seven years in prison on the back of a second-degree assault/domestic violence conviction, according to ESPN.

Chad Wheeler, a former offensive lineman for the Giants and Seahawks, was accused of having strangled his girlfriend to the point of unconsciousness on two occasions during a 2021 incident. He is also said to have been surprised when she woke up the second time.

A jury determined that Wheeler “used force or means likely to result in death” that should have earned him a minimum of 60 months in jail. Prosecutors asked the court for a 108-month sentence, but he was given 81 months, as well as 36 months of probation.

Wheeler apologized to his now-former girlfriend Alleah Taylor via social media.

“Events happened over the weekend that transpired from a manic episode,” he wrote. “I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused to Alleah 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 Alleah gets the care she needs and I get help.”

Taylor sustained a fractured humerus and dislocated injury during the altercation.

Wheeler was with the Seahawks at the time of the incident and was promptly released by the team following his arrest.