Willie McGinest breaks silence, apologizes for jumping man in Hollywood restaurant

Former New England Patriots defensive end/linebacker Willie McGinest has broken his silence over an incident in a Hollywood restaurant. The 51-year-old was involved in a fight, during which he assaulted another man and later broke a bottle over his head as footage obtained via TMZ captured the scuffle. He was charged with felony assault.

It has taken a few days for the NFL analyst to release a statement. On Friday, he finally did. The former Patriots star apologized for his actions in a statement he released to the public.

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McGinest's statement reads:

“First and foremost, I want to offer my deepest apology for my lapse in judgment and behavior on December 9 at a restaurant in West Hollywood. To my family, community, friends, and youth I mentor, please know I feel horrible for my actions and take full responsibility.”

He added:

“To my colleagues at the NFL Network and those I work closely with as an advisor to professional and community-based organizations, please know I am embarrassed and regret what occurred."

The analyst's bond was set at $30,000, and he was promptly released shortly after. As he is currently employed via NFL Network, they have currently suspended him as the investigation continues.

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Willie McGinest's NFL career

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McGinest was drafted with the fourth overall pick by the New England Patriots in the 1994 NFL Draft. He played all 16 games (started seven) in his rookie season, recording 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. His efforts led him to be an All-Pro in his first year.

He followed that up with an 11-sack season in year two, becoming a force on the Patriots defense. Another big sack total followed in year three as he registered 9.5 for the 1996 season and was named to the Pro Bowl.

He then had a couple of down seasons that saw him play 11 and nine games. In 2001, he became a part of Bill Belichick's Patriots dynasty that won three Super Bowls in four seasons.

He finished up with the Patriots after 12 years and found himself in Cleveland with the Browns for three years before calling it a day after the 2008 season.