Former Atlanta Falcons running back Jamal Anderson was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence Wednesday at a home in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley, the LAPD tells NBC4 Investigates.
Police responded to the home at about 11 a.m. Officers determined that Anderson was involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation, the LAPD said.
Anderson allegedly strangled the victim, police told NBC4 Investigates. Paramedics were called, but the victim declined treatment.
NBC4 Investigates has attempted to reach out to a representative of Anderson for comment.
The 53-year-old Anderson, known for his touchdown celebration dance dubbed the “Dirty Bird,” was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence, police said. He was released from custody on a $50,000 bond, according to Los Angeles County jail records. Jail records did not indicate an initial court date.
Anderson, who was born in Woodland Hills and attended El Camino Real High School, played college football at Moorpark College and Utah before he was drafted by the Falcons in the 1994 draft. His best season came in 1998 when he rushed for 1,846 yards and scored 14 touchdowns.
The outstanding season, which ended in a Super Bowl loss to the John Elway-led Denver Broncos, earned Anderson a Pro Bowl appearance.
He played eight seasons in the NFL, his last in 2001 after a knee injury.