Alexis Johnson Pleads Not Guilty to Aggravated Assault, False Imprisonment

University of Tennessee defensive lineman Alexis Johnson pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated assault and false imprisonment Tuesday.  

The Associated Press provided comments from Gregory Isaacs, Johnson's lawyer, about the initial plea after the arraignment: "the reason why is because he is not guilty."

Matt Slovin and Natalie Neysa Alund of the Tennessean reported Johnson was arrested in February after a domestic incident involving a woman he previously dated. The woman alleged they were "play fighting" before things turned violent.

The report included comments from the arrest warrant about the incident:

"

The defendant attempted to repetitively touch and kiss her and she repeatedly stated that she did not want to have sex with him. (The) victim attempted to leave the bedroom and said the defendant blocked the door prohibiting her exit. While doing so, the defendant stated, 'You think I won't (expletive) you up.'

"

A witness was also quoted in the warrant as stating Johnson "appeared to be really punching her," and it caused the alleged victim to suffer a busted lip, according to the Tennessean report.

Tennessee suspended him from the football program following the arrest.

The situation comes at a time when the university is already under intense scrutiny. Last month, Ray Sanchez of CNN reported six unidentified accusers filed a lawsuit against the school for violating federal Title IX regulations by creating "a hostile sexual environment and culture."

Johnson transferred to the Volunteers from Fort Scott Community College in Kansas as part of the 2016 recruiting class. The lineman would be set to enter his junior season next fall.

The case is now scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 21, according to the AP report.