MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A not guilty plea has been entered for former Vikings first-round draft pick Erasmus James, who is charged with felony battery and misdemeanor disorderly conduct in a Madison bar fight.
James was arrested last weekend after police says he lost his temper when a bartender refused to serve him after closing time. Police say James punched a friend in the face.
The 27-year-old James stood silently Thursday in Dane County Circuit Court and a not guilty plea was entered for him.
As conditions of his release, James isn't allowed to return to the bar or consume alcohol. James' attorney didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.
A former Wisconsin standout at defensive end, James played three injury-plagued seasons for the Vikings after being picked 18th overall in 2005. He was traded to Washington last year and played in five games before being cut in December.
