Former Eskimo Adam Braidwood pleads guilty to sexual assault

Former Edmonton Eskimo Adam Braidwood was sentenced to 4½ years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to sexual assault and careless storage of firearm.

Braidwood, 28, admits that he sexually assaulted, choked and threatened to kill a woman in December 2010.

The 4½ -year sentence was imposed after Justice Eric Macklin accepted a joint submission from the Crown and defence.

When asked by the judge if he had anything to say, Braidwood stood up and replied, "No, not at this time."

In a statement read in court, Braidwood said that he has been treated for drug addiction but accepts responsibility for his actions.

Braidwood also apologized to the victim, his family, the community and the Edmonton Eskimos in a letter submitted to the court.

Braidwood played with the Eskimos from 2006 until 2010, posting 64 tackles, 12 quarterback sacks and a touchdown in 46 regular-season games.