Aaron Hernandez is no longer a member of the New England Patriots, but the Patriots still could be compelled to pay Hernandez for this season and next.
The NFL Players Association filed grievances against the Patriots on Wednesday, according to Ben Volin of The Boston Globe. The grievance is an attempt to compel the Patriots to pay Hernandez the more than $6 million in guaranteed money he’s owed over the next two seasons. The NFLPA’s first grievance is seeking for the team to pay guaranteed salaries of $1.323 million (2013) and $1.137 million (2014) as well as a $500,000 2014 workout bonus to Hernandez.
Hernandez signed a five-year, $40 million contract extension, which included $12.5 million in guarantees, ahead of the 2012 season. The Patriots paid him $9.25 million up front in a signing bonus, with the other $3.25 million set to be paid out in March 2014. The NFLPA filed a second grievance on Wednesday, seeking the Patriots to pay the remaining $3.25 million when it comes due in March.
Hernandez has been indicted in the murder of semi-pro football player Odin Lloyd and is currently awaiting trial.
Have a question for Luke Hughes? Send it to him via Twitter at @LukeFHughes or send it here.
