NFLPA files grievance against Patriots on behalf of Aaron Hernandez

Aaron Hernandez will probably never be able to make it rain again, but maybe his family will (Jim Davis / Globe Staff)

The NFLPA has filed a grieveance against the Patriots looking to recoup the guaranteed money owed to Aaron Hernandez. The team released the star tight end in June after he was arrested on charges of first degree murder.

I've obtained the Hernandez complaints. The first one claims that the Patriots failed to pay the $1.323 million guarantee in his '13 salary.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 16, 2013

The first one also "anticipates" the Pats will not pay Hernandez $1.137M guarantee in '14 salary, and a $500K workout bonus guar for '14.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 16, 2013

The second Hernandez complaint "anticipates" the Patriots will not pay $3.25M in deferred signing bonus money, due on 3/31/14.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 16, 2013

So in total, the two NFLPA complaints allege the Patriots have/plan to withhold/withheld $6.21 million owed to Aaron Hernandez.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) October 16, 2013

It's not exactly the greatest looking PR move for the NFLPA, but it's not one they can help much. It is their job to fight for the players in situations like these, and despite the circumstances of Hernandez's arrest, they can't legally just ignore it.

The Patriots may be forced to pay the above amount too. Typically, contracts include a "failure to perform" or "failure to practice" clause that void guarantees. According to a report from Ian Rappaport back in June, these are missing from Hernandez's contract.