(AP Photo/CJ Gunther, Pool)
By Michelle R. Smith, Associated Press
FALL RIVER, Mass. (AP) - The judge overseeing former New England Patriots standout Aaron Hernandez's murder trial says jurors can watch this weekend's Super Bowl but must walk away or otherwise distance themselves if his name is mentioned.
Bristol County Superior Court Judge Susan Garsh gave jurors instructions Friday before dismissing them for the weekend. The Patriots are taking on the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.
Hernandez caught quarterback Tom Brady's last Super Bowl touchdown pass in the Patriots' 2012 loss to the New York Giants.
Garsh says jurors who watch the game must be vigilant to avoid exposing themselves to coverage about him.
Hernandez is charged in the 2013 shooting death of semipro football player Odin Lloyd. Opening statements in the trial began Thursday.
Hernandez had a $40 million contract with the Patriots when he was arrested.
