49ers CB Chris Culliver arrested

In the midst of trying to repair his reputation, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Chris Culliver -- expected to be a key part of the team in 2014 -- is facing felony charges.

San Jose, Calif., television station KTVU-TV reported that city police arrested Culliver after a hit-and-run incident Friday morning in which he allegedly struck a bicyclist and fled.

Culliver is also facing weapons-possession charges. Police say he had illegal brass knuckles in his possession.

An eyewitness reportedly saw the accident and followed Culliver's vehicle until he cornered him and attempted to block it from leaving. Police said Culliver left his car and threatened the witness with the brass knuckles, and then fled again in the car. He then struck the witness' car.

Police then arrived on the scene and arrested Culliver. He was booked into Santa Clara County jail.

The television station reported that Culliver was arrested for felony hit-and-run for striking the bicyclist, reckless driving causing an injury, felony possession of brass knuckles and misdemeanor hit-and run-for striking the vehicle.

The bicyclist was treated and released with minor injuries, according to the report.

"The 49ers organization is aware of the recent matter involving Chris Culliver," the team said in a statement released Friday night to KTVU. "We will remain in contact with Chris and the local authorities as we continue to gather the facts regarding this situation. As this is an ongoing legal matter, we will reserve further comment at this time."

Culliver, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL, is currently set to be a starting cornerback. The 49ers also are expected to address the position early in the draft.

Culliver was the center of a firestorm during Super Bowl week in February 2013, when he made anti-gay comments. Culliver underwent counseling and has since been active in denouncing such actions.