The bad news: he's no longer a Florida Gator football player. The good news: he's no longer in jail.

Former Gator cornerback Jacques Rickerson-- who is accused of choking his girlfriend... made his first appearance in court Wednesday.

Rickerson was released on his own recognizance... on the condition that he avoid all contact with his girlfriend.

Police say Rickerson hit her in the face and choked her early this week.

Rickerson faces felony charges of domestic battery by strangulation and preventing communication to law enforcement.