In Cleveland, during an NFL football game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey (97) of the Cleveland Browns is positioned on the sidelines. Court documents state that Winfrey was taken into custody in Texas on Monday, April 10, 2023, on a misdemeanor assault allegation after he allegedly hurt a lady he was seeing. (Kirk Irwin, file; AP photo)

Perrion Winfrey, a second-year defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns, was taken into custody earlier this week in Harris County on a misdemeanor assault allegation after he allegedly hurt a lady he was seeing.

Winfrey was taken into custody about 7 p.m. on Monday and charged with one count of assault, according to court documents from Harris County. After being freed on a $1,000 bond, he was instructed to keep his distance from the woman.

A representative for the Browns stated that the team was aware of the circumstances and was obtaining more data.

Winfrey “unlawfully, willfully, and knowingly inflicted bodily injury to the woman by holding and pulling her with his hand,” according to the formal complaint. The offense was categorized as assault on a family member because of the relationship.

Cleveland selected Winfrey in the fourth round of the 2022 draft; however, due to her immature behavior, the team penalized her at least twice in the previous season. He made 22 tackles in 13 games while playing.

Winfrey had claimed to have turned the corner following his absence from sessions and his second-week absence.

Winfrey remarked, “I simply feel like that was something I needed to evolve into.” I’m pleased it happened because I feel like if it hadn’t, I wouldn’t be the player that I am now. I believe that everything happens for a purpose.

Winfrey was supposed to show up for the team’s optional summer training the next week.