Pop star and former NFL star split after 10 years

Jessica Simpson and her husband, former NFL tight end Eric Johnson, have called it quits after 10 years.

“Eric and I live separately and are going through a painful situation in our marriage,” she told PEOPLE. “Our children come first and we focus on what is best for them. We are grateful for all the love and support that has come our way and appreciate privacy at this time as we work through this situation as a family.

The site says Simpson, 44, and Johnson, 45, married in 2014 and have three children: two daughters, Maxwell Drew, 12, Birdie Mae, 5, and a son, Ace Knute, 11.

In November, according to the report, Johnson was seen without his wedding ring. It was also around the same time that Simpson announced a return to music.

Johnson, who played collegiately at Yale, was selected in the seventh round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers. He played for the team until 2006, then spent one season with the New Orleans Saints.

He finished his career with 240 receptions for 2,178 yards and nine touchdowns.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM on mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile app from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. daily.