Jameis Winston has released a statement attempting to defend himself against allegations that he groped a female Uber driver in March 2016, which the NFL is investigating.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback claims that the report from BuzzFeed News, which he does not call by name, is incorrect.
A news organization has published a story about me regarding an alleged incident involving a female Uber driver from approximately two years ago. The story falsely accuses me of making inappropriate contact with this driver. I believe the driver was confused as to the number of passengers in the car and who was sitting next to her. The accusation is false, and given the nature of the allegation and increased awareness and consideration of these types of matters, I am addressing this false report immediately. At the time of the alleged incident, I denied the allegations to Uber, yet they still decided to suspend my account.
I am supportive of the national movement to raise awareness and develop better responses to the concerns of parties who find themselves in these types of situations, but this accusation is false. While I am certain that I did not make any inappropriate contact, I don't want to engage in a battle with the driver and I regret if my demeanor or presence made her uncomfortable in any way.
Winston's attorney also denied the allegations to BuzzFeed, claiming it was not the quarterback who did anything wrong, only that it was his Uber account that was used in the incident.
"We categorically deny this allegation. It is our understanding the uber driver was unable to identify the specific individual who allegedly touched this driver inappropriately," said lawyer Russ Spielman. "The only reason his name is being dragged in to this is that his Uber account was used to call the ride."
The driver who accused Winston of grabbing her crotch said he was the only person in the vehicle, which was refuted in the quarterback's statement. He did, however, admit to being in the car.
The Buccaneers released a statement Friday confirming they are aware of the investigation and are currently gathering information. Winston settled a civil suit with a woman earlier this year who accused him of rape in college.
