Former NFL defensive lineman Dana Stubblefield is on the brink of freedom following a California appellate court’s decision to overturn his 2020 rape conviction. Stubblefield, a three-time Pro Bowl player and Super Bowl champion, has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, and now he looks forward to reconnecting with his family and rebuilding his life.

According to his attorneys, Kenneth Rosenfeld and Allen Sawyer, Stubblefield is overjoyed by the news and eager to leave custody.

“He’s euphoric,” Rosenfeld said in an interview with TMZ Sports. “He’s excited to get out. We always knew this was going to happen.”

The legal battle

The legal saga began in 2015 when Stubblefield was accused of raping a woman at gunpoint after luring her to his home under the pretense of discussing a babysitting job. Stubblefield denied the accusations, asserting the encounter was consensual.

Despite his claims, the former San Francisco 49ers star was convicted in 2020 and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. His defense team immediately raised concerns about the fairness of the trial, citing violations of the California Racial Justice Act of 2020 and other procedural errors.

After years of legal battles, the California appellate court sided with Stubblefield‘s attorneys on December 26, 2024, vacating his conviction and paving the way for his release.

“The court agreed with us that there were significant issues with the trial,” said Sawyer.

Stubblefield‘s immediate plans upon release are clear: to spend time with his family, whom he has deeply missed during his time in custody.

“If there’s one thing that Dana misses the most, it’s being with his family,” Sawyer said.

The former NFL star’s incarceration has kept him away from his loved ones for years, but his attorneys are working to expedite his release.

“He’s excited to be home,” Rosenfeld added.

The legal team also emphasized that Stubblefield is determined to share his side of the story publicly.

“Once out, he will tell his story,” Rosenfeld said. “And he will tell about the injustice.”

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