Indianapolis Colts linebacker D'Qwell Jackson has been arrested and charged with simple assault after an incident on Tuesday night.
The player allegedly punched a man in the face and the back of his head in a dispute over a car parking space.
The US Attorney's office has warned that the charge could carry a maximum sentence of 180 days in jail, and a fine of up to $1,000 (£650).
Jackson signed a four-year deal worth $22m (£14m) with the Colts last year after he left Cleveland Browns.
He has not missed an NFL game since 2009.