Tuaolo Speaks About Arrest

Gay former NFL player Esera Tuaolo said reports of his arrest last week have been blown out of proportion, Outsports reports.

"This is a private situation that has gotten blown out of proportion by the media," Tuaolo said in a statement on Monday. "My personal relationship is very dear to my heart, and it upsets me deeply that this private matter now has to be played out in front of the public. I love my boyfriend, and am now focused on my loving family; I ask everyone for privacy as we work through this."

Tuaolo, 41, was arrested and charged June 20 with domestic assault and disorderly conduct. Police would not identify the victim of the crime. He was later released on $2,000 bail, and a judge handed down a domestic abuse-related no-contact order with the victim. A hearing will take place in August.

Tuaolo played for the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, and Carolina Panthers. After retiring, he came out to The Advocate in 2002.