"Just Do What I Can to Show Who I Am.": Anthony Chickillo Looks to Move Forward As He Returns to Steelers

Steelers linebacker Anthony Chickillo had all charges of domestic violence withdrawn on Wednesday after his arrest at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Wharton Township for an incident involving his girlfriend, Alysha Newman, on October 20.

Chickillo returned to practice on Thursday after being removed from the Commissioner's Exempt List. Now that Chickillo is back with the team, he's focused on moving forward, helping the Steelers in any way he can.

"Do whatever I can to help the team move forward," Chickillo said. "So taking it one day at a time."

Chickillo acknowledged his arrest has hurt the team's focus this week. The linebacker also sent his apologies to Pittsburgh's fans.

"I just want to acknowledge that the situation has been a distraction for my teammates and this organization," Chickillo said. "To the fans, I apologize for that."

The organization has worked with Chickillo throughout the process. The linebacker has spoken with everyone in the facility, saying the focus is to push forward and turn attention to football. "They ask me how I'm doing and I just want to move forward and do everything I can to help the team going forward."

Chickillo also said Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been supportive throughout the incident.

"Coach Tomlin was supportive," Chickillo said. "Take it one day at a time. Just do what I can to show who I am."

No charges were pursued after the incident. Chickillo was in court on Wednesday, but Newman and the court agreed not to press any charges following the arrest.

"I am grateful that no charges (were pursued) from the legal system, grateful for that and hopeful moving forward with the NFL that they find the same thing," Chickillo said.

Chickillo has practiced with the team on Thursday and Friday, but isn't certain if he'll play on Sunday. If he does, he'll be ready when called upon.

"These past two days have been my first practices back, and that decision is obviously up to coach Tomlin and coach Butler," Chickillo said. "And when my number’s called, I’m going to be ready."