Meyer defends treatment of Hernandez
Ohio State coach Urban Meyer broke his silence on Aaron Hernandez, whom he coached at Florida from 2007-09.
Meyer exchanged a series of text messages with the Columbus Dispatch on Saturday in which he defended himself and the University of Florida's treatment of Hernandez, who is accused of murdering former semi-pro football player Odin Lloyd.
"Prayers and thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim," Meyer wrote. "Relating or blaming these serious charges to the University of Florida, myself or our staff is wrong and irresponsible."
Meyer had previously refused to comment about Hernandez. His texts were motivated by what he believes are inaccurate reports that Meyer and the university enabled Hernandez.
"I just received an email from a friend where there is an accusation of multiple failed drug tests by Hernandez covered up by University of Florida or the coaching staff. This is absolutely not true," Meyer wrote. "Hernandez was held to the same drug testing policy as every other player."
Meyer defended the way he and the school treated Hernandez when he played for the Gators.
"He was an athlete at Florida 4-7 yrs ago and there are some comments being made that are not correct," Meyer wrote. "Our staff, myself and our families worked very hard to mentor and guide him."
Meyer had Hernandez at his home for bible study sessions and tried to help him after his father died in 2006, according to ESPN. Meyer also vouched for Hernandez with New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick after several teams stayed away from Hernandez in the 2010 draft.
