Chad Johnson Has Probation Reduced, Wants to Return to NFL

Former NFL star appears in Broward court for hearing

Former NFL star Chad Johnson was in a Broward County courtroom for a hearing Monday where his probation was reduced for finishing anger management courses related to his arrested on a domestic battery charge last year.

Johnson will be placed on administrative probation and won't have to show up to court again, essentially ending his probation term, said his attorney, Adam Swickle.

After the hearing, Johnson met with reporters, telling them he was ready to "live life to the fullest as I did before," and attempt a return to the NFL.

Chad Johnson Pleads No Contest, Gets Probation

"It's unfortunate that I made a terrible mistake, I've apologized as many times as I could," Johnson said. "Hopefully right now my focus is to get back in the league, to play the game that I love so dearly, that I worked so dearly since I was a baby to achieve and make that a dream of mine. To have that taken away from you is a horrible blow."

The 34-year-old wide receiver was arrested in August for allegedly headbutting his then-wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada, in their Davie home.

Johnson Cops Plea Deal, Avoids Jail in Battery Case

According to Davie Police, Lozada found a receipt for condoms and confronted Johnson about it at dinner. The argument continued during their drive home, and when they arrived at their driveway, he allegedly head-butted her.

Johnson was cut by the Miami Dolphins the next day and Lozada later filed for divorce.

The confrontation came barely a month after Johnson married Lozada, who is on the reality TV show "Basketball Wives." Johnson had been battling for a spot on the Dolphins after a disappointing season with the New England Patriots in 2011.

Johnson and Lozada Divorce Finalized

Administrative probation means that Johnson, a Miami native, would no longer have to make in-court appearances, provided it accepts records of Johnson's mandatory domestic counseling classes, and provided that he stays out of trouble.

"I think I've learned my lesson, I've become a better man with the classes that I've attended, the people that I've met, throughout this journey," Johnson said Monday. "I think that storm is over now and the sun is somewhat peeking back out and I'm just looking forward to what's to come."

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