Former Buffalo Bills punter Matt Araiza has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs after being cleared of accusations of involvement in a gang-rape incident. Araiza, a sixth-round pick in 2022, gained attention for his powerful punts during training camp and preseason games, earning him the nickname “Punt God.” However, just before the NFL season was set to begin, Araiza was accused of participating in the gang-rape of a 17-year-old girl at a college party at San Diego State University, his alma mater. As a result, he was released by the Buffalo Bills.
Araiza fought for approximately 16 months to clear his name, and recent developments have shown progress in his favor. His accuser dropped the lawsuit last December, and both prosecutors and the school confirmed that the actions between Araiza and the girl were consensual. The lawsuit alleged that Araiza had thrown the girl on a bed and engaged in unsolicited sex with her while she went in and out of consciousness. It also claimed that the encounter lasted an hour and a half, leaving the girl bloodied and crying.
Araiza admitted to having sex with the girl but stated that he did not know she was 17 at the time. It was later revealed that Araiza had left the party before the alleged gang rape occurred. Videos from inside the bedroom where the incident took place did not provide enough evidence to support the claim of a gang rape, according to prosecutors. They also highlighted that the accuser had lied about her age to other men at the party, claiming to be 18.
Witnesses at the party confirmed that the girl had been leaving and returning to her friends, informing them that she had engaged in sexual activities with different men. Despite the civil lawsuit suggesting that Araiza had led her to a bedroom, prosecutors found evidence that she had left her friend group again and returned, claiming to have had sex with another man. Deputy District Attorney Trisha Amador emphasized that the girl had not been under the influence of any substances.
Another witness stated that the girl had approached men at the party, expressing her desire to engage in sexual activities and using explicit language. In light of these developments, Araiza plans to sue the accuser’s lawyer for defamation.
After nearly two years since being drafted, Araiza expressed his pride and honor in signing a contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. He thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support and expressed his excitement to continue his NFL career with the Super Bowl champions.
In conclusion, Matt Araiza’s journey from being accused of a serious crime to clearing his name and signing with the Kansas City Chiefs is a testament to his perseverance and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, Araiza remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and was ultimately vindicated. Now, he has the opportunity to continue his promising NFL career with one of the league’s top teams.
