Ikemefuna Enemkpali has apologised to the New York Jets and Geno Smith after punching the quarterback, leaving him with a broken jaw.
The 24-year-old has been ruled out of action for up to 10 weeks after sustaining the injury in the attack by Enemkpali as the duo quarrelled over a $600 (£385) debt owed to the linebacker.
Enemkpali was immediately released by the team, ending his career with the Jets after just one season.
He told NFL Network: "I apologise to the Jets organisation, coaches, teammates and fans. Geno and I let our frustration get the best of us.
"I should have just walked away from the situation. It was never my intention to harm anyone."
Enemkpali made three tackles for the club in the 2014 season.
