Former NFL linebacker Bill Romanowski, a four-time Super Bowl winner, and his wife have filed for bankruptcy as they continue to deal with a federal lawsuit claiming they owe more than $15 million in back taxes.
USA Today reports the Romanowskis filed for bankruptcy less than 24 hours before a hearing on the U.S. Department of Justice’s civil case against the couple. The bankruptcy filing puts a temporary pause on the government’s efforts to collect an estimated $15.5 million back taxes, USA Today reports.
The DOJ filed its lawsuit against the Romanowskis in June 2023, CBS Sports reports. The government claims the couple avoided paying taxes by using money from its nutrition company, from Nutrition53, for personal reasons.
According to reports, court records show the couple set up bank accounts on behalf of Nutrition53. They then used the money for personal reasons, such as to pay the rent for their California home, for more than 170 visits to salons and day spas, and to pay their daughter’s rent, authorities say.
Romanowski, 58, played for four teams during his 16 seasons in the NFL, winning two Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers and two with the Denver Broncos. He retired following the 2003 season while with the Oakland Raiders.
He was a two-time Pro Bowler, but he also had several controversies during his career, including spitting in the face of receiver J.J. Stokes during a 1997 Broncos game against the 49ers on “Monday Night Football.” In 2003 he attacked Raiders teammate Marcus Williams, crushing Williams’ eye socket. The injury forced Williams to retire.
He also admitted to using steroids and human growth hormone during his career.