KING

Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Rocky Bernard appears in a King County courtroom in Seattle on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 on an assault charge.

SEATTLE – Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Rocky Bernard is out of jail on his own recognizance after pleading not guilty Tuesday to assaulting an ex-girlfriend.

A judge ordered Bernard to stay away from the woman and the business where the alleged assault took place. He's also not allowed to possess a firearm.

Seattle Police say they were called to a nightclub on 2nd Avenue early Monday morning after Bernard's ex-girlfriend, who is the mother of his child, says she was punched in the head by the 6-foot 3, 308 pound lineman.

A police report claims the 21-year-old Renton woman says Bernard walked towards her in the club and punched her with a closed fist, knocking her into a glass divider.

The victim says she and a witness left the club because they were concerned for their safety. The report says the two jumped in a car and drove to a safe place before calling 911, prompting officers to arrest Bernard at the scene.

The victim complained of head pain, but declined a trip to the hospital.

Bernard, 29, is six year veteran with the Seahawks who started 14 games last year. He is in the final year of a three year, $13 million contract.

A Seahawks spokesperson said Monday "We are aware of the situation, and still gathering information at this time. Until we know more, we have no other comment."