I recognize my mistakes and I take full responsibility for my actions. Drinking and driving is wrong. I’ve been blessed that no one was hurt due to my irresponsible actions. I recognize that I cannot drink. I’m learning to deal with my situation.

I apologize to my family, friends, my teammates and the Chiefs’ fans and organization for disappointing or embarrassing them in any way. I acknowledge my responsibilities as a citizen and a public figure. God has blessed me with a second chance to be able to change and make things right. I am embracing this new opportunity.

Since my third DUI, I have embraced my rehabilitation like never before and made changes in my lifestyle. I have come a long way and I have a lot further to go. I figured out things about alcohol and about myself that I didn’t know before. I’m doing all that has been requested and required of me. I’m taking steps to make myself better, as both a person and a football player.

During the off-season, I attended Valley Hope for a month and joined Alcoholics Anonymous. I continue to attend regular weekly meetings with both organizations in addition to complying with my probation requirements. I hope that at some time in the future I might be able to use my experience to help others.

I am looking forward to Chiefs’ training camp next week and getting back with my teammates to play some football. I love football! I’m anxious to get back onto the field and make an impact on the Chiefs’ defense. I am grateful for this opportunity and I plan to make the most of it.

Statement from Valley Hope

Alcoholism is a chronic disease with radiating effects on family, friends and society. There is no cure, however millions of people world wide have found recovery through treatment and attendance at 12 step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous. More than 700,000 Americans receive alcoholism treatment on any given day (NIAAA). But just like any chronic disease, there are varying levels of success when it comes to treatment. With treatment, the longer a person abstains from alcohol, the more likely he or she will be able to stay sober. The sober alcoholic is only one drink away from disaster.

An individual who gets a DUI is not necessarily an alcoholic. A person who gets two, three or more DUIs generally is an alcoholic. The alcoholic continues to drink in the face of adverse consequences. The alcoholic does not have lesser values or less of a conscience than normal drinkers. Currently, nearly 14 million Americans – 1 in every 13 adults – abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. Several million more adults engage in risky drinking that could lead to alcohol problems. In addition, 53 percent of men and women in the United States report that one or more of their close relatives have a drinking problem (NIAAA). It takes great courage to face this disease and a life long commitment to a program of recovery lived one day at a time to remain healthy.

Statement from Craig Domann, agent, Domann & Pittman LLC

I could not be more pleased with how Eric has embraced his situation head-on. His humility and determination are admirable! He will rise from this situation and be a better person, citizen and teammate because of it.

The regular season is long and with 16 games, Eric will start 12 games and be a valuable contributor to the Chiefs’ this season. I expect Eric to bounce back in a big way and have one of his best seasons yet.

Eric loves playing football and he greatly appreciates the support he has received from his teammates, the Chiefs’ organization, and the loyal Chiefs’ fans. He will be back!

All media inquiries should be directed through:

Teddi Domann

Domann & Pittman, LLC

719-266-9308

Interview courtesy of: Domann & Pittman LLC – Sports representation and management