Seattle, Washington – Former NFL offensive linesman Chad Wheeler has been sentenced to 81 months in prison, equivalent to 6.75 years, following a brutal attack on his girlfriend in November 2021. Wheeler, a player who previously suited up for the New York Giants, was found guilty of first-degree assault domestic violence on November 9 and received his sentence on March 1.
Wheeler’s ex-girlfriend, Alleah Taylor, spoke out about the harrowing experience, detailing how the attack unfolded when she refused his demands. The incident left her with serious injuries, including a concussion and the need for metal instruments to maintain mobility in her arm. Despite the passage of time, Taylor remained steadfast in her pursuit of justice, publicly expressing her relief at Wheeler’s prison sentence.
The assault occurred while Wheeler was playing for the Seattle Seahawks, following his time with the Giants and his college career at USC. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 317 pounds, Wheeler overcame significant injuries during his college years before making it to the NFL. However, his promising career was cut short by his violent actions.
During his brief NFL tenure, Wheeler played in 32 games with 19 starts and managed a single fumble recovery. Despite his athletic prowess, Wheeler’s off-field behavior ultimately overshadowed his performance on the field. His fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of domestic violence in professional sports.
As Wheeler begins his prison term, the NFL continues to grapple with issues of player conduct and personal accountability. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing toxic behavior within the league and holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their athletic achievements.