Chris Rainey, a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers and former Florida University star, was arrested this morning in Gainesville on charges of simple battery.
Law enforcement officials say they responded to a 911 call from witnesses who allege Rainey slapped his girlfriend after she grabbed his cell phone.
According to the official report, Rainey pulled his girlfriend from a car in which she attempted to lock herself, striking her in the face and causing them both to topple to the ground as a result.
Neither party showed visible injuries after the altercation.
Rainey, a rookie fifth-round draft pick, was also arrested in 2010 on stalking charges after he was accused of texting the message "time to die" to his girlfriend at that time.
UPDATE: Rainey has been cut.
Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert says in a statement:
"Chris Rainey’s actions this morning were extremely disappointing. Under the circumstances and due to this conduct, Chris will no longer be a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers."