Defensive lineman Ra'Shede Hageman is getting a second chance in the NFL after a very dark period in his life, and it is coming with a familiar team.
According to D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Falcons have re-signed Hageman a year and a half after parting with him due to a domestic violence arrest.
“As an organization, we believe in opportunities when people take responsibility for their actions and are committed to change,” said Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff. “We believe Ra’Shede understands that his conduct was wrong and has learned from his mistakes. He has met the obligations of the court in his prior matters and worked hard over the last two years including community service, intensive course work and rehab. That said, we understand the seriousness of his actions, and he knows we will not tolerate abusive behavior in any form.”
Atlanta head coach Dan Quinn added that Hageman has “taken responsibility for his actions” and has showed an “ongoing commitment to getting better.”
Going into 2017, Hageman was suspended six games by the NFL on charges of battery family violence, interfering with a call for emergency help, and cruelty to children in the third degree, resulting in the Falcons releasing him.
In March of 2016, Hageman allegedly pulled the hair of the mother of his child and then pushed her down in the parking lot outside of her apartment, resulting in lacerations to her hand and elbow. He then prevented her from calling 911 by taking her phone. All of this happened in front of their child.
The 28-year-old last appeared in an NFL game back in February of 2017, when he started Super Bowl LI for Atlanta against the New England Patriots.
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