Golden Tate has denied long discussed rumors that he had an affair with Russell Wilson's ex-wife and that he and Percy Harvin had a physical fight before the Super Bowl.
Tate signed with the Detroit Lions in the offseason.
"Of course, things can never be that simple — multiple rumors circulated about my departure from Seattle — but fans need to understand football is also a business. After my four-year contract was completed, I signed a new deal with a new team. This process plays itself out with each and every player in the league.
"Unfortunately, I have since been harassed on social media over a multitude of reasons about why I left, none of which are true. It was profoundly disappointing, not only that these “fans” were circulating rumors about me, but more so how my reputation became tarnished in the process.
"I did not have an affair with Russell Wilson’s wife, nor did I have anything to do with his divorce. That is laughable for anyone who knows us. His ex-wife, Ashton, is still best friends with my girlfriend. Russell and I were good friends when I was in Seattle, on and off the field — he knows the rumors about me were unfounded, damaging to my reputation, and an attack on my character. Anyone who circulated that rumor was just plain irresponsible.
"There was also a social media frenzy concerning me and Percy Harvin. To set the record straight, I was not punched by Percy during Super Bowl week last year, nor did I have a black eye, as was speculated on by various Internet reports. I even saw a photo of my face that was photoshopped with a mark on it! Percy and I did have a confrontation, yes, but no punches were thrown, and it certainly never rose to the level that was erroneously reported by certain outlets. I highly respect his level of play. He’s one of the best in the game!"