Ray Rice has been largely avoiding the spotlight since the disturbing domestic violence saga that ruined his NFL career and destroyed his reputation, but he did make an appearance at ex-teammate Torrey Smith's Toys for Tots charity drive Wednesday night.
Rice and his wife, Janay, moved freely about the event, speaking to reporters and taking photographs with Ravens fans and little kids alike.
"This is the best time of year to give," Rice said to TMZ Sports. "[Being here] is a warm welcome, just to know there's people out there who still support.
"I made a horrible mistake in my life, but if you truly believe in second chances, they'll forgive me. It does feel good to be out and be amongst the Baltimore community."
The "horrible mistake" Rice is referring to, of course, is the punch he threw at Janay in the elevator of an Atlantic City casino in early 2014. Rice was initially suspended two games for his transgression, but subsequently leaked video footage of his actions sparked a firestorm of outrage, leading to his release by the Ravens and an indefinite suspension by the NFL.
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This was Rice's first public appearance since an independent judge had overturned that indefinite NFL suspension in November. Despite regaining his eligibility, Rice has yet to sign with an team and isn't expected to before the season's end.
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