Vikings Release CB Jeff Gladney After Indictment On Felony Assault Charge

The Minnesota Vikings released cornerback Jeff Gladney on Tuesday after he was indicted by a Texas grand jury on a charge of felony assault.

"Following our review of today's indictment against Jeff Gladney, we have decided to release Jeff immediately. 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," the team said in a statement.

The 24-year-old was a first-round draft pick out of TCU in 2020, and he started 15 games for the Vikings as a rookie. He had not been around the team since his arrest in Dallas in April, ESPN reports.

Gladney is charged with domestic violence by impeding breathing, for "intentionally, knowingly and recklessly" causing bodily injury and applying pressure to a woman's neck and throat, according to the indictment, per ESPN. A lawsuit filed by a former girlfriend states the altercation grew out of an argument and took place over a span of more than two hours. She also alleges in the suit that he tried to bribe her and intimidate her into keeping quiet.

NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said the league office "will continue to review this serious and concerning matter under the personal conduct policy" and will monitor all legal developments. Gladney is now is now an unrestricted free agent.

ESPN reports that no court date has been scheduled yet.