An NFL star was spotted spending time with a rumored “mob boss” in Florida over the weekend.
Sauce Gardner, the standout cornerback for the New York Jets, appeared in a video alongside Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino, a well-known figure with alleged ties to organized crime in Philadelphia.
Merlino, who has amassed 100,000 followers on Instagram, shared the video on his social media accounts. In the post, he wrote, “My main man @saucegardner stay tuned Podcast coming soon ?????? ?.”
Merlino’s history with the law is extensive. He was sentenced to federal prison in 2001 on racketeering and other charges, though he and six co-defendants were acquitted of murder charges. Merlino was released from prison in 2011 but later returned for a brief period due to illegal gambling activities.
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Earlier this year, Merlino’s cheesesteak shop in Philadelphia, Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks, was the site of a suspicious fire. Authorities suspect arson, as two incendiary devices were found at the scene. Federal authorities have since become involved in the investigation.
“The Fire Marshall responded to the scene declaring an arson,” stated Philadelphia police officer Tanya Little.
The fire occurred on a Thursday morning at Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks, located on Broad Street near Packer Avenue. The establishment was previously known as Ace of Steaks.
Merlino, 62, is a Philadelphia native with a criminal record that includes three separate convictions. Despite his controversial past, his association with Gardner has sparked significant interest and speculation.
As for Sauce Gardner, this unexpected association has certainly raised eyebrows. Fans and followers are curious about the nature of their relationship and the upcoming podcast teased by Merlino. Whether this will affect Gardner’s career or public image remains to be seen, but it has certainly added an intriguing twist to his offseason activities.