Maurkice Pouncey apologizes for wearing hat that said 'Free Hernandez'
Steelers rookie center Maurkice Pouncey, who was injured in the AFC Championship against the Jets, has not been ruled out of the Super Bowl yet. (Jan. 23, 2011) Credit: Getty Images
While former Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez awaits his trial on first-degree murder charges in connection with last month's death of semipro football player Odin Lloyd, two of his former Florida teammates made news over the weekend by wearing baseball caps with the words "Free Hernandez" printed on the front.
Twin brothers Maurkice Pouncey, a Steelers center, and Mike Pouncey, a Dolphins center, wore the caps at their recent birthday party. Despite the fact Hernandez's case has not been adjudicated, the two brothers nevertheless were criticized for supporting a player who had been charged with murder.
Maurkice Pouncy apologized on Monday.
"I fully recognize the seriousness of the situation involving my former [Florida] teammate, and I regret that my actions appear to make light of that serious situation," Pouncy said via Twitter. "I apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions."
Mike Pouncey has not commented.
