Chicago Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton was arrested early Sunday morning and charged with public intoxication and assault following an alleged altercation at Chill Sports Bar and Grill in Grapevine, Texas, NFL Media was told by Sgt. Robert Eberling of the Grapevine Police Department.
The 6-foot-3, 295-pound lineman (who attended Grapevine High School) allegedly punched the manager in the face and bit his arm, according to The Associated Press report. Eberling also told The AP four bar staffers restrained Melton until police arrived. Melton suffered a cut nose during the altercation but declined treatment.Â
Melton was arrested and taken into custody at approximately 1:45 a.m. CT.
"We are aware of the reports regarding Henry Melton," the Bears said in a statement. "We are currently gathering information to learn more about the circumstances surrounding the arrest."
According to an ESPNChicago.com report, the 27-year-old was released at 9:21 a.m. CTÂ Sunday. He posted a $1,210 bond, per The AP.
Melton maintains his innocence, according to his agent.
"It's still preliminary, and we're looking into everything," Jordan Woy told ESPNChicago.com. "But Henry said he didn't do anything. He said he didn't throw a punch at anybody and that he got jumped by a couple of bouncers on the way out."
Melton played in just three games this season and is on injured reserve after suffering a torn ACL in Week 3.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
