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Former NFL punter Matt Araiza says he's looking to the future after lawsuit alleging rape was dismissed against him

Araiza said he plans to sue Jane Doe's attorney, Dan Gilleon, for defamation.

SAN DIEGO — Attorneys for former NFL punter Matt Araiza announced a civil lawsuit accusing him of taking part in a gang rape will be formally dismissed against him by next week.

"I'm well aware the evil that's out there and people willing to ruin people's lives for money, I never experienced that before," said Araiza during a news conference downtown with his attorneys and his parents.

"I'm confident I'll be able to regain my NFL career. I believe it's more of a 'when' not an 'if,'" he said.

CBS 8 learned on Tuesday that an agreement had been reached between Araiza and 'Jane Doe.' Neither side paid any money, but Jane Doe agreed to drop Araiza from the civil lawsuit. 

In return, Araiza agreed to drop the defamation lawsuit he filed against her.

Araiza said he just wants to get back into the NFL. He was cut by the Buffalo Bills last year. Wednesday he told reporters he's practiced with the New York Jets,  but wouldn't say whether any other teams have reached out to him.

Though the legal battle with Jane Doe appears to be over, Araiza said he plans to sue her attorney, Dan Gilleon.

"He lied time and time again, specifically through the media which caused me so much damage," said Araiza. "Had he just filed the lawsuit and not gone on a big media tour, it might be a different story. But the way he handled it was unbelievably unprofessional, going to Twitter starting this big social media campaign it was quite ridiculous. He'll be held accountable for his actions."

CBS 8 reached out to Gilleon for comment. So far we have not heard back. 

Meanwhile, Jane Doe's civil suit against the other four defendants continues. The trial is set for February.

WATCH RELATED: Attorney: Lawsuits in SDSU rape case to be dismissed

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