Chad Johnson escapes jail time over headbutt By WENN.com

Evelyn Lozada and Chad Johnson. (WENN.com and AFP photos)

Disgraced U.S. sportsman Chad Johnson has struck a deal with prosecutors in his assault case in a bid to stay out of jail.

The football star and reality TV regular allegedly headbutted his ex-wife Evelyn Lozada during a row last month. He was charged with misdemeanour battery.

But sources tell TMZ.com he has agreed a plea deal and has been placed on probation. Johnson will also have to complete extensive anger management counselling and he has also agreed to a no-contact order that would block him from even talking to his ex.

The news comes just a day after his divorce from Lozada was finalized.

Lozada filed for divorce immediately after the incident, ending the couple's month-long marriage.

Johnson was cut by the Miami Dolphins after the alleged altercation and TV bosses pulled the plug on a reality TV series featuring the sportsman and his wife.