*Update: Aaron Hernandez Charged With Murder

Aaron Hernandez has been charged with murder. The now former New England Patriots tight end was arrested this morning in North Attleborough, Mass. 

 The New York Times reports that Hernandez was charged with the murder of Odin Lloyd, the 27-year-old semipro football player who was found shot dead in an industrial park near the NFL player's home. 

Hernandez plead not guilty to the murder charge as well as five over gun-related charges that were leveled against him. Shortly after his arrest this morning, the New England Patriots cut ties with Hernandez, releasing him from the squad. "A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss," read the Patriots organization's press statement. 

"Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation. We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do." Hernandez signed a 5-year contract with the Patriots last year worth potentially up to $40 million, which is now pretty much void.

The Roc Is Official: Jay-Z Is Now An Officially Licensed NBA Agent

Is there anything Jay-Z can't do? The rapper/mogul and Roc Nation Sports founder can add licensed NBA agent to his resume. 

ESPN reports: Will Jay-Z actually represent clients of his newly created sports agency, Roc Nation Sports, in contract negotiations? Ron Berkowitz, a spokesman for Roc Nation Sports, confirmed to ESPN.com that, as of this week, Jay-Z is now licensed to work as an NBA agent. 

Juan Perez, president of Roc Nation Sports, also is now certified with the National Basketball Players Association. The news was first reported by the Sports Business Journal. Interestingly, it seems that Hova has yet to sell his ownership stake in the Brooklyn Nets as widely reported. What's not clear is how soon Jay-Z can represent players. A source close to the situation said that, as of Wednesday, the hip-hop mogul had not sold his small ownership share (less than 1 percent) of the Brooklyn Nets. Industry speculation is Jay-Z might be able to sign players as long as he agrees to pass off his share of the Nets in the near future. 

Owners of NBA teams cannot represent players. Roc Nation Sports has yet to land an NBA player on it roster. Speculation is that Kevin Durant plans to sign on, having left his agent, Rob Pelinka, a couple of weeks ago. Pro players represented by Roc Nation Sports include Geno Smith of the NFL, Skylar Diggins of the WNBA and Robinson Cano of the MLB.

Conversation Started: First Major Active American Pro Athlete Reveals He's Gay

Washington Wizards center Jason Collins just made history after revealing that he's gay, making him the first major active American male pro athlete to come out of the closet.

Collins, who's been playing in the NBA since 2001, revealed the news in an article for Sports Illustrated, saying, "I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. I'm gay."

"I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation," he added.

"I'm glad I can stop hiding and refocus on my 13th season," Collins said.