The Patriots are doing everything they can to eliminate all traces of Aaron Hernandez from their organization, and who can blame them?
Hernandez, the Pro Bowl tight end, was arrested and charged with murdering Odin Lloyd on June 26 and was released by the Patriots less than two hours later. The Patriots team store already removed all of Hernandez’ No. 81 jerseys and merchandise from its shelves and Friday announced on their website that anyone who owns a Hernandez jersey can bring it to the Patriots ProShop and exchange it for a jersey of equal or lesser value. The jersey swap is only good on July 6-7 at the team store in Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, which is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“We know that children love wearing their Patriots jerseys, but may not understand why parents don’t want them wearing their Hernandez jerseys anymore,” Patriots spokesperson Stacey James said. “We hope this opportunity to exchange those jerseys at the Patriots ProShop for another player’s jersey will be well received by parents.”
Hernandez, 23, who pleaded not guilty to murder and five other charges, is being held after being denied bail.